What a fiery spectacle awaited us at the Plaza Theater in Orlando, Florida, as approximately 900 fervent fans congregated in eager anticipation of the legendary Saxon and Uriah Heep 2024 Tour, aptly named "Hell, Fire and Chaos: The Best of British Rock and Metal."
The atmosphere crackled with electric excitement as the stage lights dimmed, signaling the imminent onslaught of metal mastery. Saxon burst onto the scene with a thunderous roar, kicking off the night with the title track from their latest album, "Hell, Fire and Damnation." The crowd erupted into a frenzy, each chord striking like a flaming arrow to the heart.
Nigel Glockler's drumming was a force of nature, thundering through the venue with precision and power that rivalled the gods of thunder themselves. Brian Tatler's guitar riffs sliced through the air like a razor-sharp blade, while Biff's vocals soared with ageless vigor, commanding the audience's attention with every note.
As the night unfolded, Saxon treated us to a thrilling mix of old favorites and new hits, each song igniting the crowd into a wild frenzy of headbanging and fist-pumping. Classics like "Motorcycle Man" and "This Town Rocks" transported us back to the glory days of British metal, while tracks from their latest album injected a fresh surge of adrenaline into the set.
Amidst the blistering performance, Brian Tatler's 64th birthday provided a moment of camaraderie, hinting at celebrations to come after the show. But for now, the focus remained on the music, which enveloped us in its intoxicating embrace.
And then, just when we thought the night couldn't get any more electrifying, Saxon returned to the stage for an encore fit for metal royalty. With Biff inviting the crowd to choose the songs with their cheers, we were treated to a triumphant finale featuring "Denim and Leather," "Wheels of Steel," and the crowd favorite "Princess of the Night." It was a fitting end to a night of pure metal magic.
As Uriah Heep took the stage, their seasoned musicianship and timeless classics served as a perfect complement to Saxon's high-octane performance. Of course, I was curious to compare the Uriah Heep of 1970-1976 to today’s band, with only Mick Box on lead guitar remaining of the originals.
The vocals were being handled by Bernie Shaw, not exactly a newbie, having joined the band in 1987. I’d say 37 years almost qualifies him as an original member, and David Byron wouldn’t be ashamed of him as a successor. Mick Box, who somewhat reminded me of Geddy Lee in appearance, hasn’t slowed down a bit.
Dave Rimmer on Bass and Russell Gilbrook on drums are 15+ year veterans making up the rhythm section of Uriah Heep. They make a good team and keep the backing beats on track. A new edition is Adam Wakeman on keys. Well, new to Uriah Heep! Wakeman has often collaborated with his rather well-known father, Rick Wakeman. He was most recently in Ozzy Osbourne’s band; he’s no rookie!
From the haunting melodies of "Easy Living" to the thunderous rhythms of their latest offerings, Uriah Heep proved that age is no barrier to rock and roll greatness.
Their set – and by the way, the bands are co-headliners, so they’ll be switching off who opens/closes, and their sets are approximately equal length – kicked off with “Save Me Tonight” and “Grazed by Heaven,” then mixed in classics “Rainbow Demon” and “Stealin,’” followed by “Hurricane,” back to “Sweet Lorraine,” then “Hail the Sunrise” and “Free ‘n’ Easy,” ending with more classic hits: “Gypsy, Look at Yourself,” and “July Morning.” Of course, that wasn’t enough, they encored with “Sunrise” and finally, a must-play, “Easy Livin’!”
As the final notes faded into the night, leaving the Plaza Theater buzzing with energy, it was clear that "Hell, Fire and Chaos: The Best of British Rock and Metal" was more than just a concert. It was a journey into the heart of heavy metal's eternal flame, leaving us all forever changed by the experience.
MMROC - Southern Cal, loyal listener Dan McKenna and MMROC Correspondent Bill "THe Rager".
MMROC Listeners - Dan Mckenna, MMROC Correspondednt Bill "The Rager" along with Amy, Heidi and Kerry from The "Monday Night Melbourne Cocktail Club" Radio show listeners.
It was a treat to catch Saxon early in the tour. The band was spot on and they definently delivered. If this tour is anywhere remotely close to YOUR town then get those "Wheel's of Steel" in mothioned and get to the show.
For Metal Mayhem ROC, this is Southern Cal
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