EXCLUSIVE
METAL LEGENDS SAXON GET BACK TO THEIR METAL ROOTS WIth a passion project covering classic tracks .
In her first interview for Total Order Magazine , Jacqui Raven manages to catch up with one of the biggest voices in metal history , Biff Byford from the iconic metal band Saxon . The band returns with “ Inspirations ”, a new collection of cover songs carefully selected by the band as key influences of their style and sound . From the Rolling Stones to The Beatles , Saxon delivers their signature sound to these classic by their heroes . Biff takes a few moments to answer some quick questions about the new record , touring and the state of the industry .
So , your new album , “ Inspirations ”, dropped on the 21st of March . What was the concept for this album ?
BIFF : The whole album is made up of cover songs and the bands that made them , such as “ Paint In Black ”, by the Rolling Stones and “ Speed King ” by Deep Purple . Mostly 60 ’ s and 70 ’ s songs that we remember like Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles . Also something I don ’ t hear being continued or replicated in this day and age of metal . I just thought , why not try my hand at that and write it myself .
Now I understand that the band recorded the album at Brockfield Hall near York in the UK , and that the album is connected to the house ?
BIFF : Yes ! We decided to literally move in to house , cook , sleep , you name it , so we could record it live and in the moment . We literally turned the house into a live studio . We used Marshall Cabs , Marshall Amps and drums to give it that live feel .
The band has been around since 1979 . How has the music industry changed since the band came into Metal ?
BIFF : Well , the industry as a whole has changed . Bands are a lot more accessible for sure . Since the digital explosion in the 90 ’ s , with social media like You Tube , especially in America , bands can put their music out there and have an instant connection . Now you can release singles before your album and have record sales . Back then you had to wait for the album to come out , and cross your fingers .
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Music Far Left Photo courtesy of : Silver Lining Music