Saxon // Sweet Savage // Live Review // The Ulster Hall // Belfast

Saturday night, early March, and we have a stellar lineup in the Ulster Hall tonight, Northern Ireland’s own Sweet Savage is here tonight supporting one of the UK’s finest old-school NWOBHM bands in Saxon, as they bring their Seize The Day World Tour to our beautiful city.

First up are the local lads, Sweet Savage is a legendary band from Northern who have seen some of the finest six-string slingers cross their paths over the years, Def Leppard’s Vivian Campbell and Simon McBride of course but tonight we have the equally enigmatic Phil Edgar slaying it in front of a sold-out Ulster hall crowd along with his compatriots Marty McCloskey on drums and of course the mighty Ray Haller on vocals and bass. The guy’s brand of classic rock sets the Ulster Hall alight as they get the Belfast audience’s toes tapping and energy pumping with a collection of old fan favourites and tracks off their upcoming album Bang, so we are being treated to some of the first plays off what is going to be another timeless recording from this band.

Sweet Savage laid down a blistering set of highly addictive tracks that captured the imagination of the bloodthirsty Belfast crowd and they sealed the deal with Thin Lizzy’s ‘Rocker’ which always goes down well on this island. A brilliant set, passionate first-class classic rock that just gets the blood flowing, as the roars from the crowd signal their approval as the set wraps up I spot one unlikely fan giving it her all from the crowd, the one, the only Beth Hart is in the building incognito, enjoying a night off after playing Dublin last night, before her very own headline performance in this very building tomorrow night., Well played Beth, well played! But I see you!

Sweet Savage

As the lights dimmed and the crowd roared in anticipation, I knew that I was about to witness something special. The year was 2023, and I was at Belfast’s iconic Ulster Hall to see one of the most influential bands in heavy metal history: Saxon. Born way back in 1975 it is hard to comprehend the journey this band has taken, but here we are ready to receive.

As the intro music blared through the speakers, the band took to the stage, led by frontman Biff Byford, and launched into “Carpe Diem,” the title track from their latest album. From the first note, it was clear that Saxon were firing on all cylinders. The energy was palpable, and the crowd responded in kind, throwing their fists in the air and singing along with every word.

Despite being in their 60s, Saxon showed no signs of slowing down. Byford’s voice was as powerful as ever, and the band’s musicianship was nothing short of impressive. Guitarists Paul Quinn and Doug Scarratt traded blistering solos, while bassist Nibbs Carter and drummer Nigel Glockler kept the rhythm tight and heavy.

As the set progressed, Saxon delved into their extensive back catalogue, playing classics like “Strong Arm of the Law,” “Power and the Glory,” and “Crusader.” The crowd went wild, moshing and headbanging with reckless abandon.

But Saxon wasn’t content to simply play the hits. They also showcased material from their newer albums. These songs fit seamlessly alongside the classics, proving that Saxon’s songwriting prowess has not diminished over time.

One of the highlights of the show was when Byford invited a fan onstage to sing “Wheels of Steel” with the band. The lucky fan belted out the lyrics with gusto, much to the delight of the crowd.

As the set drew to a close, Saxon closed out with their signature anthem, “Denim and Leather” and “Princess Of The Night”. The crowd sang along with every word, and it was clear that this song – and this band – had touched the lives of countless people.

As I left the Ulster Hall that night, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such an incredible performance. Saxon may be getting older, but they still have the fire and passion that made them legends in the first place. If you ever have the chance to see them live, don’t pass it up – you won’t be disappointed.

An unforgettable performance from one of Metals most revered bands left Belfast in its wake, as the happy metalheads streamed out of the building you could see far and wise what this night meant to so many, passionate fans living every thrash of those guitars, singing along at the top of their voices giving everything they can and Saxon gave it all back ten-fold. Lovers of all things metal of all ages, fathers with their kids educating them on how things should be done, it is a great sight to see, long may it continue.

Photography: Mark McGrogan

#flashartmark @flashartmark 

https://markmcgrogan.com

Bookings & Commissions available @ flashartphotography@gmail.com

SAXON – ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM “MORE INSPIRATION” ON 24TH MARCH

1. We’ve Gotta Get Out of This Place
2. The Faith Healer
3. From the Inside
4. Chevrolet
5. Substitute
6. Gypsy
7. Man On the Silver Mountain
8. Detroit Rock City
9. Razamanaz
10. Tales of Brave Ulysses