SAXON – Let Me Feel Your Power

Legendary NWOBHM act Saxon surely needs no introduction. It has been one of the most consistent and solid bands on the heavy metal circuit for the past 38 years, and these past few years have seen the release of quality albums such as "Call to Arms", "Sacrifice", and "Battering Ram".

This 16-track live album (2CD/DVD or 2CD/Blu-Ray – note that this review only covers the CDs/audio) by the heavy metal stalwarts shows that the band has lost none of its drive and power on stage. These guys know how to whip the crowd into a frenzy and entertain people, which is quite evident on "Let Me Feel Your Power" from pretty much start to finish. I really dig the rather unpolished and raw sound of this release, simply because it conveys what it actually feels and sounds like to witness Saxon live on stage.

Singer Bill Byford is in fine form and is obviously enjoying himself on stage, and the band as a whole is tight and right on the money, just as one would expect from a bunch of seasoned veterans who have kept the flag of metal flying for decades. A handful of songs off "Battering Ram" are performed, and they sound great in a live context. The same goes for the title track off "Sacrifice". Aggressive, intense, and to the point. No fucking around. Obviously, the album also includes a lot of classic material from benchmark releases such as "Denim and Leather", "Strong Arm of the Law", and "Wheels of Steels". For some reason, those old metal anthems never really get old, and these hard-hitting 2015-2016 live renditions certainly sound vital, fiery, and energetic.

One could argue that perhaps "Let Me Feel Your Power" mostly appeals to fans of the band or the ones that caught the band live on tour in 2015 or early 2016, but on the other hand, it is interesting to hear and experience what Saxon sounds like on stage today, and the mix of golden metal oldies and brand new songs works well. Overall, this is an entertaining and solid release.

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