SAXON wheels of steel CAL115
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Artist = SAXON
Title = wheels of steel
Label = CARRERE
Catalog# = CAL115
Barcode = none
Release = UK
Year = 1980
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
9trk, carrere music is printed on labels at lower center
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The Album That Defined a Genre: Saxon’s ‘Wheels Of Steel’ (CAL 115)
Today’s entry focuses on a landmark release that helped define the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). We are looking at the 1980 UK pressing of Wheels Of Steel by Saxon, released on the Carrere label with the catalog number CAL 115.
Released in February 1980, this album marked a massive leap forward for the band following their debut the previous year. It was Wheels Of Steel that cemented Saxon’s reputation, capturing the grit, speed, and anthemic power that would influence a generation of metal bands, including Metallica.
The album features the classic lineup of Biff Byford (vocals), Paul Quinn and Graham Oliver (guitars), Steve Dawson (bass), and Pete Gill (drums). From the moment the needle drops, the energy is relentless. The opening track, Motorcycle Man, is a high-speed metal classic that sets a blistering pace.
The record is packed with the band’s most enduring hits. The title track, Wheels Of Steel, provides a stomping, AC/DC-esque groove that became a rock radio staple. 747 (Strangers In The Night) showcases their ability to craft atmospheric, melodic metal with storytelling lyrics. Other highlights include the rapid-fire Machine Gun and the melodic Suzie Hold On.
Recorded at Ramport Studios in London and produced by Pete Hinton and the band, the production is punchy and direct. CAL 115 is an essential cornerstone for any heavy metal vinyl collection. This original UK pressing captures the moment Saxon transformed from a club band into international headliners, delivering an album with absolutely no filler.