Saxon

Saxon Live at La Riviera, Madrid

Date: Sunday, 26 April 2026

About the Event

Get ready to be transported back to the golden age of British heavy metal as the legendary Saxon descend upon Madrid for an unforgettable night at the iconic La Riviera. On Sunday, 26 April 2026, prepare for a powerful onslaught of classic riffs, soaring vocals, and the unyielding energy that has cemented Saxon’s status as true titans of the genre. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a pilgrimage for devoted fans and an essential experience for any true metalhead. Witness firsthand the enduring spirit of NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) delivered with the raw passion and seasoned professionalism that only Saxon can provide. Prepare for a night where the air will vibrate with thunderous anthems and the stage will ignite with a performance that transcends generations.

About Saxon

For over four decades, Saxon have been at the forefront of the heavy metal scene, carving out a legacy built on relentless touring, powerful songwriting, and an unwavering commitment to their craft. Formed in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, in 1977, the band quickly rose to prominence during the explosion of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Their early releases, including the self-titled debut Saxon (1979) and the critically acclaimed Wheels of Steel (1980), established them as formidable contenders, showcasing a sound that blended the raw aggression of punk with the epic scope of traditional heavy metal.

Throughout the 1980s, Saxon solidified their international reputation with a string of successful albums like Strong Arm of the Law (1980), Denim and Leather (1981), and The Eagle Has Landed (1982), which captured their electrifying live performances. Hits such as “Wheels of Steel,” “Motorcycle Man,” “And the Bands Played On,” and the iconic “Princess of the Night” became anthems for a generation of metal fans, earning them prime slots on festival stages and headlining tours across the globe. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, the unwavering core of vocalist Biff Byford has ensured Saxon’s consistent output and enduring appeal. Their discography is vast, spanning over twenty studio albums, each demonstrating their commitment to evolving their sound while staying true to their metallic roots. Their latest offerings continue to impress, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to delivering hard-hitting, no-nonsense heavy metal. Saxon are not just survivors; they are relentless innovators who continue to inspire new bands and captivate their loyal fanbase with every thunderous riff and defiant roar.

Venue Information

La Riviera, a cornerstone of Madrid’s vibrant live music scene, provides the perfect intimate setting for an electrifying Saxon performance. Situated in a prime location, this esteemed venue has a rich history of hosting some of the world’s most renowned musical acts, offering a fantastic atmosphere for music lovers. Its well-equipped stage and excellent acoustics ensure that every note and every lyric will be delivered with maximum impact, allowing the audience to connect intimately with the raw power of Saxon. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening that embodies the very essence of classic heavy metal. Saxon’s live performances are legendary, a testament to their enduring passion and commitment to delivering an unadulterated metal experience. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their most beloved anthems with potent tracks from their more recent, critically acclaimed albums. You can be certain that timeless classics such as “Wheels of Steel,” “Denim and Leather,” and the anthemic “Princess of the Night” will ignite the crowd, sending waves of pure metal euphoria through La Riviera.

Beyond the hits, Saxon have a knack for digging into their extensive catalogue, unearthing deeper cuts that will thrill long-time devotees. Expect powerful renditions of tracks that showcase their musical prowess and lyrical depth, reminding everyone why they have remained relevant for so long. Vocalist Biff Byford remains a commanding presence on stage, his distinctive voice still possessing the gravelly power and commanding authority that has defined Saxon for decades. Supported by a formidable band of seasoned musicians, the performance will be a masterclass in tight musicianship and raw energy. The stage presence will be electrifying, with the band radiating a palpable enthusiasm that is infectious. Expect a no-frills, no-nonsense approach to their performance – this is pure, unadulterated heavy metal, played with conviction and sheer joy. The typical duration of a Saxon concert is around 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring a full and satisfying evening of headbanging and singing along to every word. Get ready for a show that is not just heard, but felt, leaving you exhilarated and ready for more.

FAQs

Q1: Will Saxon be playing their classic hits from the 1980s? Absolutely! Saxon are renowned for their electrifying live sets that feature a generous selection of their most cherished anthems from the 1980s, including “Wheels of Steel,” “Princess of the Night,” and “Denim and Leather.” You can expect these fan favourites to be a significant part of the show, guaranteed to get the crowd singing along.

Q2: Can I expect Saxon to play songs from their newer albums as well? Yes, Saxon have a strong commitment to their current output and often incorporate material from their more recent studio albums into their live performances. This ensures that their shows offer a dynamic blend of their legendary catalogue and their continued artistic evolution, showcasing the enduring vitality of the band.

Q3: Is Saxon known for any particular stage presence or performance style? Saxon’s live shows are characterised by their no-nonsense, high-energy performance style. Frontman Biff Byford is a charismatic and commanding presence on stage, delivering his powerful vocals with conviction. The band as a whole exudes a raw passion and commitment to their music, creating an authentic and exhilarating heavy metal experience.

Q4: What is the typical length of a Saxon concert? A typical Saxon concert usually lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. This duration allows them to deliver a comprehensive setlist, covering a wide range of their extensive discography and providing ample opportunity for fans to enjoy their favourite tracks.

Q5: How does Saxon’s current lineup compare to their classic era? While Saxon has experienced some lineup changes over their long career, the enduring core has always been vocalist Biff Byford. The current band members are seasoned musicians who have been with Saxon for many years, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the band’s sound. They are dedicated to upholding the Saxon legacy and delivering a powerful performance.

Q6: Will there be any opportunities for merchandise or meet-and-greets? Merchandise stalls offering a range of Saxon-branded items, including t-shirts, vinyl, and other memorabilia, are typically available at Saxon concerts. Regarding meet-and-greets, these are often arranged separately and may be limited. It’s advisable to check the official Saxon website or ticketing platforms closer to the event date for any announcements regarding merchandise or potential meet-and-greet opportunities.