This is my review of this show that will be posted at Rock Over America.... but I thought I'd post it here first!
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Legendary British metal band Saxon invaded The Avalon in Santa Clara, California on Friday September 30, and simply leveled the place. The sonic assault was non stop with Biff Byford and company once again showing why they are one of the greatest troupes in Heavy Metal history.
Whether they were cranking out new songs such as
Hammer of the Gods or
Doomsday from their latest release entitled
‘Call to Arms’ or delving into their vast catalog of metal classics such as
Heavy Metal Thunder or
Denim & Leather, the quality of the music and performances was simply top drawer all the way. The crowd agreed as well as the packed house cheered the new material just as strongly as the old. With the punters in the pit showing their appreciation all night long.
Speaking of the newer material it was amazing how seemless the newer songs were, if anything they were even heavier than the older songs. With that in mind whenever the band seemed to slow down they pulled out a strong new song which sent the crowd over the top. Whether it was
Afterburner or
Sweeny Todd the fans devoured them all
You simply don’t see a lot of modern metal acts holding the attention of the audience for over 2 hours, and Saxon had them by the throat. When the band launched into
Battalions of Steel from the 2009 album
‘Into the Labyrinth’ a collective gasp could be heard as Nigel Glockler’s double kick drums went into overdrive. The twin lead attack of Paul Quinn and Doug Scarratt is as strong as any in metal (and highly underrated) showed off their chops in fine fashion. Not to be outdone Nibbs Carter delivered a solid bass line, highlighted by his own solo.
Biff delivered a strong vocal performance and continues to show what it takes to be a front man, stage prowess, charisma and demanding presence. He had the crowd in the proverbial palm of his hand and they lined up at his feet. The front of house sound technician had it dialed in and the sound was powerful and crisp.
This tour should not be missed by anyone, it was strong and ballsy with punch. Hopefully it won’t take the better part of a decade for Saxon’s wheels of steel to grace the San Francisco Bay area again. Here’s one fan who’ll set the spirit free.
Set List
Hammer of the Gods
Heavy Metal Thunder
Never Surrender
Chasing the Bullet
Motorcycle Man
Back in ‘79
Dallas 1pm
Batallions of Steel
Call to Arms
Rock N Roll Gypsy
Sweeny Todd
This Town Rocks
Doomsday
Denim & Leather
Afterburner
Princess of the Night
1st Encore
Crusader
747 Strangers in the Night
Guitar Solo (Scarratt)
Power & the Glory
2nd Encore
Bass Solo
Strong of the Law
Wheels of Steel
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Subject: SAXON at The Avalon in Santa Clara California.... 9/30/2011 
Mon Oct 03, 2011 2:10 am
Strong selist, hope they make it to Australia soon.
