INTERVIEW: In a new interview with Dioses Del Metal, SAXON frontman Biff Byford was asked how he feels about the fact that his band has been cited as a …

INTERVIEW: In a new interview with Dioses Del Metal, SAXON frontman Biff Byford was asked how he feels about the fact that his band has been cited as a …

 

In a candid new interview with Dioses Del Metal, SAXON frontman Biff Byford shared his thoughts on the band’s enduring legacy, as well as the overwhelming recognition of SAXON as one of the most influential bands in the history of heavy metal. In the discussion, Byford expressed gratitude and awe at how his band’s music has shaped generations of rock fans, becoming a pillar in the evolution of the genre.

 

Asked about the profound impact SAXON has had on the heavy metal scene, Byford commented, “It’s really humbling to think that we are mentioned alongside some of the giants of the genre. For years, we’ve worked hard, stayed true to ourselves, and focused on our music. To see younger bands and fans now cite SAXON as an influence or a driving force in metal—it’s incredible.”

 

The interview touched upon the band’s early days, when they played a pivotal role in the NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) movement, which saw the rise of bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Judas Priest. For Byford, SAXON’s place in that iconic wave of rock music is something he still cherishes.

 

“I remember those early days, the energy we had. We were all young, eager, and ready to take on the world. The whole NWOBHM scene was a movement that changed the landscape of heavy metal, and we were a part of it,” he recalled. “It’s nice to see that the music still resonates with people today, and we continue to play festivals and shows with bands that were influenced by us.”

 

Byford’s reflection on the past is tinged with nostalgia, but it’s clear that SAXON isn’t resting on their laurels. The band has maintained a rigorous touring schedule, and their new album, Carpe Diem (released in 2022), was well-received by fans and critics alike. “We’re still pushing forward,” he says. “There’s always a new challenge. The creative process doesn’t stop, and we’re always looking at new ways to evolve while staying true to our roots.”

 

The conversation also shifted to the current state of the heavy metal scene, with Byford expressing admiration for both the old guard and the new wave of metal bands. “The music is in a good place. There’s so much talent out there, and the younger bands are keeping the spirit of metal alive. We’re still inspired by the music we hear, and we’re constantly learning,” he said.

 

When asked about how he views SAXON’s influence on bands that came after them, Byford responded, “It’s always an honor to be cited as an influence. When you’re in the thick of it, you don’t really think about the long-term effect your music will have. But when you see bands that have been inspired by what we did, it makes all those long hours of writing and touring worthwhile.”

 

Biff Byford’s reflections paint a picture of a man deeply connected to his band’s roots, but also someone who is keenly aware of the future. SAXON may have laid the groundwork for a genre, but they aren’t slowing down anytime soon. As Byford puts it, “The ride is far from over. There’s still so much more to do, and I’m excited to see where the journey takes us next.”

 

As the interview wrapped up, Byford shared a final message for SAXON’s devoted fanbase: “Thank you for supporting us over the years. You’re the reason we’re still here, and we’ll keep doing what we do as long as we can. Stay metal!”