British heavy metal legends return January 22, 2027 via Silver Lining Music with Andy Sneap-mixed record rooted in history, mythology, and pure NWOBHM spirit
British heavy metal legends ‘Saxon‘ have announced “Gods of Thunder,” their new studio album set for release on January 22, 2027 via Silver Lining Music. The band have also unveiled the title track as the album’s first single, a powerful and anthemic journey into the world of Celtic mythology.
Frontman Biff Byford was characteristically direct about the new track: “‘Gods of Thunder’ is a mighty tale of Celtic mythology, packed with the spirit and power of true heavy metal. Turn it up and bang your head!”
Produced by Byford himself and mixed by Andy Sneap, known for his work with ‘Judas Priest‘, ‘Exodus‘, and ‘Accept‘, “Gods of Thunder” captures the band at the height of their powers, combining forceful performances with vivid and meticulously crafted storytelling. Pounding bass and drums, searing guitars, and Byford’s unmistakable voice combine to create a sonic barrage of pure British metal that carries the spirit of the past, present, and future.
“We had great fun making this album,” Byford added. “This is gonna be one to beat!”
Drawing on history, fantasy, horror, ancient mythology, pagan rites, and the enduring spirit of rock and roll, “Gods of Thunder” showcases Byford’s longstanding passion for historical storytelling across ten powerful and quintessential ‘Saxon’ songs. “The Bloody Tower (The Ballad of Anne Boleyn)” recounts the politically charged execution of Anne Boleyn, while “Medusa” shifts focus to myth, driven by a taut and mesmeric riff delivered at relentless pace. “Remember the Alamo” charges forward with the fast-paced energy and spirit of early eighties NWOBHM. The twin-guitar attack of Doug Scarratt and Brian Tatler is particularly prominent on “Temple of Rock,” underpinned by the rock-solid rhythm section of Nigel Glockler and Nibbs Carter. The album closes with “MI5,” a timeless headbanger that brings together themes of the Berlin Wall and Cold War espionage.
‘Saxon’ will be hitting the road for the “Gods of Thunder World Tour Part 1 (Castles & Eagles Production)” across the UK and Ireland in February 2026. Further international dates are expected to be announced soon.
Tour dates:
13 Feb – Wolverhampton, UK – Civic Hall
14 Feb – Glasgow, UK – O2 Academy
16 Feb – Belfast, UK – Telegraph Building
17 Feb – Dublin, IE – 3Olympia Theatre
19 Feb – Manchester, UK – O2 Apollo
20 Feb – Newcastle, UK – O2 City Hall
21 Feb – Sheffield, UK – City Hall
23 Feb – Cardiff, UK – The Great Hall
24 Feb – Bristol, UK – Beacon
25 Feb – Southampton, UK – O2 Guildhall
27 Feb – London, UK – Eventim Apollo
“Gods of Thunder” will be available on a range of vinyl variants, CD, exclusive bundles, and digital formats. Pre-orders are available HERE.
‘Saxon’ are:
Biff Byford – Vocals
Nigel Glockler – Drums
Doug Scarratt – Guitar
Brian Tatler – Guitar
Nibbs Carter – Bass
