Album Review: Saxon – Carpe Diem

February 8, 2022 | Reviewed By Nick Davarias

If you’re a fan of metal then you have almost definitely heard the name Saxon. One of the founders of British heavy metal, the band have captivated audiences around the world with their music so it comes as no surprise that fans have been eager to hear their latest album ‘Carpe Diem’ ever since it was announced. Here is what I thought of Saxon’s latest release.

Opening the album is the title track ‘Carpe Diem (Seize The Day)’, which starts with foreboding drumming before unleashing an assault of heavy riffs and impactful vocals. Saxon has such a distinct sound and this album captures that feeling right from the off. The classic style continues into ‘Age Of Steam’, an atmospheric track that is full to the brim with memorable passages and an extremely entertaining narrative. It’s a great start to the record that sets the bar extremely high for the rest of the album.

‘The Pilgrimage’ is up next and it starts by slowing down the pace and introducing a simple yet soothing melody played on the guitar. Utilizing harmonies throughout the song’s entirety makes the song feel like it has multiple layers that just melt together in your ears. Despite being the longest song on the album, you will lose yourself in the enchanting instrumental track and will be left wanting more. Following that is ‘Dambusters’, a more upbeat song that takes you on an adventure to remember. Lyrically, the song is very descriptive which amplifies the atmosphere generated by the record and it allows the listener to feel a part of the ongoing story being told.

Continuing through the album and ‘Remember The Fallen’ is a song that really stood out to me. From the chugging riffs to the impactful chorus, the song had me wanting to put it on loop as soon as it ended. I feel the song has a really powerful message of remembrance for those who
have fallen defending the country they love and this type of song fit’s Saxon’s style perfectly. Up next is ‘Super Nova’ which really picks up the pace. Boasting an infectious drum track that will have even the most casual metal fan headbanging along, the track brings a more aggressive feel to the album.

After that is ‘Lady In Gray’, a song that is driven by atmospheric instrumental and captivating lyrics. Being one of the softer tracks on the album, the song creates a nice break with its vastly contrasting style to the previous number. However, this lull is not around for long as ‘All For One’ returns to a more standard metal track. Little licks and transitions allow the song to flow smoothly and the guitar solos are just so entertaining to hear. I highly recommend giving this one a spin.

As the end of the album draws near, ‘Living On The Limit’ continues the moment created by the album. This song wouldn’t be out of place playing in the background of a biker scene in a movie. Not to mention the way the song briefly slows its pace for the first part of the guitar solo just to launch back into 6th gear. Finishing off the album is ‘Black Is The Night’ and I have to say this is the perfect choice of song to close out an awesome record. Chugging riffs mixed with meaty drumming will never grow old and this song is dominated by it.

Saxon has done it once again! Carpe Diem captures the band’s essence beautifully while showing the band have still got it. British heavy metal was pioneered by bands like Saxon so it’s incredible to see them still producing some of the best music the genre has to offer to this day.

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