The British heavy metal band Saxon has begun recording sessions for their 25th studio album, following the January 2024 release of Hell, Fire And Damnation. Recent studio photos feature key members laying down tracks, with a late 2026 release anticipated. Frontman Biff Byford shared earlier insights into the songwriting process.
Studio Sessions Underway
Saxon, pioneers of the new wave of British heavy metal, entered the studio in late 2025 to produce their next album. This project serves as the successor to their 24th studio effort, Hell, Fire And Damnation, issued by Silver Lining Music in January 2024. Studio images shared recently depict drummer Nigel Glockler, bassist Tim “Nibbs” Carter, and guitarists Doug Scarratt and Brian Tatler contributing parts.
Songwriting Timeline and Quotes
In a July 2024 interview with Riff X’s “Metal XS,” frontman Biff Byford outlined the early stages: “Well, we’ve started writing the next album. I’m doing lyrics now. And I’ve got a lot of ideas from [Doug Scarratt], Nigel [Glockler] as well, and from Nibbs. So, yeah, I’ve got quite a lot of ideas... So I think we’re maybe looking — fingers crossed — we’re looking at a new album in autumn next year, September/October.”
Although Byford targeted a 2025 release then, recent updates point to a delay, with the album now slated for late 2026.
Band Background
Formed in Barnsley in 1977 as Son of a Bitch before renaming to Saxon, the group signed with Carrere Records and debuted with their self-titled album in 1979. Current lineup includes Biff Byford on vocals, Brian Tatler and Doug Scarratt on guitars, Nibbs Carter on bass, and Nigel Glockler on drums. Saxon achieved eight UK Top 40 albums in the 1980s, including four Top 10s, and have sold over 13 million records worldwide. They continue touring and uphold NWOBHM traditions into their fifth decade.