SAXON to Play Full ‘Wheels of Steel’ Album During 2025 European Tour
British heavy metal legends SAXON have announced that they will be performing their iconic 1980 album *Wheels of Steel* in its entirety during their 2025 European tour. The announcement has electrified fans of the band, who are eager to witness this milestone record performed live, as *Wheels of Steel* remains one of the most influential albums in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement.
Celebrating an Iconic Album
Released in 1980, *Wheels of Steel* was a pivotal moment for SAXON and for heavy metal as a whole. The album not only established SAXON as a leading force in the burgeoning British metal scene but also delivered timeless anthems such as “747 (Strangers in the Night),” “Motorcycle Man,” and the title track “Wheels of Steel.” Its raw energy, catchy riffs, and rebellious spirit resonated with fans and helped the album climb the UK charts.
The decision to perform *Wheels of Steel* in full will take fans on a nostalgic journey back to the early 1980s, capturing the essence of the band’s early sound. It also pays homage to an album that remains a cornerstone of SAXON’s discography, revered by both long-time followers and newer generations of metalheads.
SAXON’s Enduring Legacy
Since forming in the late 1970s, SAXON has been a constant presence in the world of heavy metal, releasing more than 20 studio albums and building a reputation for high-energy live performances. Even after four decades, the band continues to tour extensively, appealing to both their original fans and new audiences drawn to their hard-hitting sound and dedication to the genre.
The band, fronted by iconic lead singer Biff Byford, has shown remarkable resilience over the years. Despite lineup changes and the evolving musical landscape, SAXON has stayed true to their roots, producing albums that are unapologetically metal. Their latest tours have consistently sold out, and their performances are celebrated for their intensity and spirit.
Byford has expressed excitement about playing *Wheels of Steel* in full, recognizing it as a defining album for the band. “This record means a lot to us, and we know it holds a special place in the hearts of our fans,” Byford said in a recent interview. “Bringing it back to the stage and playing it from start to finish will be an epic experience.”
A European Metal Odyssey
The 2025 European tour promises to be a celebration not only of *Wheels of Steel* but also of SAXON’s entire career. Alongside playing the full album, fans can expect a setlist filled with other classics from the band’s vast catalog. The tour will span major cities across Europe, including stops in the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, among others.
In addition to their timeless hits, the tour will likely feature tracks from the band’s more recent work, as SAXON continues to prove their relevance in the modern metal scene. The combination of classic material and new offerings ensures that the concerts will appeal to both veteran fans and those who have recently discovered SAXON’s music.
Fan Reactions and Anticipation
The reaction to the tour announcement has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans expressing their excitement on social media and in online forums. Many are thrilled at the opportunity to hear *Wheels of Steel* in full, with some marking it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For long-time supporters, it’s a chance to relive the music that defined their youth, while newer fans will have the opportunity to experience the album’s energy and influence in a live setting.
Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, as SAXON’s loyal fan base and the allure of hearing *Wheels of Steel* in its entirety make this one of the most anticipated metal tours of 2025.
Conclusion
SAXON’s decision to perform the full *Wheels of Steel* album during their 2025 European tour is a fitting tribute to one of the defining records of the NWOBHM era. With a rich history and a catalog that spans decades, the band continues to cement their legacy as one of heavy metal’s enduring forces. Fans across Europe are gearing up for what promises to be a powerful and nostalgic journey through one of metal’s most cherished albums.
