| CD REVIEW Saxon |
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Band : Saxon Since these are re-issues of the original albums, albeit re-mastered and with some (a lot) of bonus tracks, I'm writing but one review for the three albums together. Saxon, one of the bands that in the eighties formed part of the NWOBHM scene, but unlike some fellow countrymen like Iron Maiden or Judas Priest, never made the big breakthrough, yet despite all, keep on going, even into these days. Who of you, who were around at that time, do not remember songs like "Denim And Leather", "Wheels Of Steel", "747 Strangers In The Night", of even "The Power And The Glory". These three albums date from later. As a matter of fact "Innocence Is No Excuse", was their seventh studio album, and the first to come out for EMI (in 1985). "Rock The Nations" followed suit in 1986, and Destiny was released in 1998. Yeah, in those days there were bands that brought out a new album each and every year. "Innocence Is No Excuse" and "Rock The Nations" have withstood the rigors of time, but "Destiny" hasn't, if you ask my opinion. This might have to do with the quality of the songs. "Innocence Is No Excuse" featuring some very good songs like "Back On The Streets", or the sublime "Broken Heroes". And Rock The Nations featuring some more radio-friendly songs like "Waiting For The Night" or "Northern Lady". Destiny on the other hand was when Saxon went into another, more polished direction, and maybe that's why it doesn't appeal to me. For all Saxon fans, who do not own a copy on CD of these records, or who would like to have all the extra's ass well - and there's quite a few of them, ranging from live recordings, to special never before released mixes, to a medley - this seems like a must buy. 80/100 Erik Morren. |
