SAXON THE EAGLE HAS LANDED Live FRANCE Release 12" Vinyl LP Album

Saxon's "The Eagle Has Landed" French release, a live heavy metal gem from 1981, encapsulates the band's peak performance during their world tour. Recorded in France, it captures the vibrant energy of the burgeoning metal scene. The 12" vinyl LP's production, blending raw live sounds with meticulous mastering, preserves the essence of the era. A cultural artifact, this release remains cherished for its musical prowess and historical significance.

This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.

 

SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed Live France Release 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

"The Eagle Has Landed" Album Description:

The Saxon live album, "The Eagle Has Landed," holds a special place in the annals of heavy metal history, capturing the essence of the band's electrifying performances during the 1981 United States leg of their world tour. As we delve into the significance of this release, let us explore not only the musical prowess exhibited by Saxon but also the broader cultural context of the time period and the intricacies of production that went into crafting this iconic 12" vinyl LP.

The early 1980s were a transformative era for the heavy metal genre, marked by the rise of numerous iconic bands and the consolidation of its distinctive sound. Saxon, hailing from the United Kingdom, was a formidable force in this movement. With their leather-clad image, powerful vocals, and intricate guitar work, the band quickly gained a dedicated fanbase.

"The Eagle Has Landed" emerged at a pivotal moment in Saxon's career, capturing the band at the peak of their live performance prowess. The year 1981 saw the heavy metal scene expanding its global reach, and Saxon's decision to record the album in France added a unique flair to its international appeal.

The live album format has always been a testament to a band's ability to connect with its audience, and "The Eagle Has Landed" excels in this regard. The raw energy and infectious enthusiasm of the crowd are palpable, creating an immersive experience for the listener. The choice to record in France not only speaks to the band's desire to reach a diverse audience but also adds a touch of European flavor to the album.

Production, a crucial aspect of any musical endeavor, played a pivotal role in bringing the live experience to the vinyl format. The analog nature of 12" vinyl LPs posed both challenges and opportunities. The warm, rich sound that vinyl is known for became a canvas for capturing the nuances of Saxon's performance. From the thunderous drumming to the soaring guitar solos, each element was carefully mixed and mastered to ensure a faithful representation of the live show.

The artwork and packaging of the French release further contribute to the album's allure. Often, the visual elements of a record are as important as the music itself. The cover art, liner notes, and overall design were crafted with a keen understanding of the aesthetic sensibilities of the time.

Album Production team:

Andy Lydon - Sound Engineer

Stewart Eales - Sound Engineer

George Bodnar (RIP 2011) - Photographer

Music Genre:

 NWOBHM New Wave of British Heavy Metal 

Record Label & Catalognr:

Carrere 67870

Media Format:

 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

 1982 Made in France
Band Members and Musicians on: SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Biff Byford - Vocals

    Biff Byford (real-name: Peter Rodney Byford) born in the year 1951 in Skelmanthorpe, Win England. Lead singer in the bands “Son of a Bitch” from 1977 until 1978, followed by being lead-singer in the SAXON band

    Byford formed Saxon in 1977 and has been a constant member of the band ever since. Over the years, Saxon has become one of the most influential bands in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement, and Byford's powerful voice and charismatic stage presence have been a key part of their success.

    In addition to his work with Saxon, Byford has also worked on various solo projects and collaborated with other musicians. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to the heavy metal genre, and has been referred to as one of the most influential heavy metal singers of all time.

    Byford is known for his unique vocal style, which features a blend of powerful and melodic singing, and his distinctive stage presence and energy have made him a popular figure among heavy metal fans around the world.

  • Graham Oliver - Guitar

    Graham Oliver a guitarist and bass player , born in 1952 Mexborough, England. He was founding member and one of the main song-writer in the British Heavy Metal band Saxon. He started his career around 1975 in a band called “Son of a Bitch”.

  • Paul Quinn - Guitar

    Paul Quinn (full-name: Paul Anthony Quinn) is one of original founding members of Saxon and started in the Coast and "Son Of Bitch" bands.

  • Steve Dawson - Bass

    Steve "Dobby" Dawson was born in 1952 , bass guitar player and one of the founding members of the British Heavy Metal band “SAXON”

  • Pete Gill - Drums

    Pete Gill - Drums, one of the co-founders of the British bands: "Son Of A Bitch" and "Saxon", he has played drums in two major British Heavy Metal bands: "Saxon" and "Motorhead" .

Complete Track Listing of: "SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed"

The Songs/tracks on "SAXON - The Eagle has Landed Live" are

  1. Motorcycle Man - 4:22
  2. 747 (Strangers in the Night) - 4:38
  3. Princess of the Night - 4:20
  4. Strong Arm of the Law - 4:39
  5. Heavy Metal Thunder - 4:09
  6. 20,000 Ft. - 3:26
  7. Wheels of Steel - 8:52
  8. Never Surrender - 3:54
  9. Fire in the Sky - 2:41
  10. Machine Gun - 3:52

 

Front Cover Photo Of SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed Live France Release 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed Live France Release 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

 Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Photo Of The Back Cover SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed Live France Release 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed Live France Release 12" Vinyl LP Album back cover

Close up of Side One record's label SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed Live France Release 12" Vinyl LP Album

"The Eagle Has Landed Live (France)" Pink Colour Carrere Record Label Details: CARRERE 67870, SACEM France ℗ 1982 Carrere Sound Copyright

"The Eagle Has Landed Live (France)" Pink Colour Carrere Record Label Details: CARRERE 67870, SACEM France ℗ 1982 Carrere Sound Copyright
 

Saxon: Revving Up the New Wave of British Heavy Metal - A Discography

SAXON - Anthology
SAXON - Anthology album front cover vinyl record

Saxon's 'Anthology,' a monumental compilation, emerged in the musical landscape of 1988. The British Heavy Metal icons unveiled this masterpiece as a 12" double LP, a testament to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) era. The anthology encapsulates the band's prowess, offering an auditory journey

Anthology 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Back on the Streets
SAXON - Back on the Streets album front cover vinyl record

In the mid-1980s, British heavy metal band Saxon released an extended 12" vinyl maxi-single featuring two tracks, "Back on the Streets (Extended Version)" and "Live Fast Die Young". This release aimed to capitalize on the success of their album "Innocence Is No Excuse" and further solidify their position

Back on the Streets 12" Vinyl Maxi
SAXON - Crusader
SAXON - Crusader  album front cover vinyl record

Saxon's "Crusader," a hallmark of NWOBHM in 1984, exemplifies the genre's evolution. Produced by Kevin Beamish, known for his 1980s metal expertise, the 12" Gatefold vinyl offers a tactile journey. This album, a blend of anthems and experimentation, embodies the era's heavy metal spirit.

Crusader 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Denim and Leather 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Denim and Leather  album front cover vinyl record

In the early 1980s, amidst a burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal scene, Saxon released their iconic album "Denim and Leather" on 12" vinyl LP. This album solidified their standing in the genre and became an anthem for the burgeoning heavy metal community.

Denim and Leather 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed (Canadian and French Releases)
SAXON - The Eagle Has Landed (Canadian and French Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

Released as a 12" vinyl LP album, this live recording transports listeners back to a time when heavy metal was forging its identity, a genre marked by unbridled passion, piercing guitar solos, and anthemic vocals. The early 1980s were a defining period for metal, witnessing the rise of iconic bands

- The Eagle has Landed Live (1982, Canada) - The Eagle Has Landed Live (1982, France)
SAXON - Innocence Is No Excuse
SAXON - Innocence Is No Excuse album front cover vinyl record

Saxon's "Innocence Is No Excuse," a seminal British Heavy Metal masterpiece, emerged in 1985 as the band's seventh studio album. Marking their debut with EMI post a rift with Carrere Records, the LP showcases Saxon's resilience and evolution. Its tracks resonate with powerful guitar riffs and anthemic vocal

Innocence Is No Excuse 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Power and the Glory
SAXON - Power and the Glory album front cover vinyl record

The late 1970s and early 1980s marked a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal, giving rise to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. This movement, characterized by a raw and energetic sound, emerged as a reaction to the perceived stagnation in the rock and metal scenes of the time.

Power and the Glory 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Rock The Nations (British and German Releases)
SAXON - Rock The Nations (British and German Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Saxon's 1986 release, 'Rock The Nations,' epitomizes the NWOBHM era's spirit. Recorded at Wisseloord Studios, the album, featuring Elton John on select tracks, is a testament to Saxon's musical prowess. The production quality at Hilversum elevated their raw sound, contributing to their status as NWOBHM

- Rock the Nations (1986, England) - Rock The Nations (1986, Germany)

SAXON - S/T Self-Titled
SAXON - S/T Self-Titled album front cover vinyl record

Saxon burst onto the music scene at a time when rock music was undergoing a transformation. The late '70s witnessed the emergence of a new wave of British heavy metal, a movement characterized by the fusion of traditional heavy metal with punk and hard rock influences.

SAXON - Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Strong Arm Metal, Saxon's Greatest Hits
SAXON - Strong Arm Metal, Saxon's Greatest Hits album front cover vinyl record

SAXON's "Strong Arm Metal" is not just an album; it's a journey through the very essence of heavy metal. Released during a period when the genre was exploding with creativity and innovation, the album compiles some of the band's most iconic tracks, showcasing their ability to craft anthems

Strong Arm Metal, Saxon's Greatest Hits 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Strong Arm of the Law
SAXON - Strong Arm of the Law album front cover vinyl record

Saxon's 1980 album "Strong Arm of the Law," released on Carrere Records in France, encapsulates the dynamic early 1980s metal scene. A product of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, the album's production on a 12" vinyl LP resonates with the era's analog warmth.

Strong Arm of the Law 12" Vinyl LP
SAXON - Wheels of Steel (Multiple International Versions)
SAXON - Wheels of Steel (Multiple International Versions)  album front cover vinyl record

The release of "Wheels of Steel" by the British Heavy Metal band SAXON in 1980 marked a significant moment in the history of the genre. This iconic album, recorded at Ramport Studios in London, UK, and produced by Pete Hinton and Saxon themselves, became a cornerstone in the metal landscape.

- Wheels of Steel (1980, England) - Wheels of Steels ( 1980, Europe ) - Wheels of Steel (1980, France) - Wheels of Steel (1980, USA)