SAXON's Brian Tatler Confirms 'Gods of Thunder' is 'In the Can'

SAXON guitarist Brian Tatler has confirmed that the band's upcoming studio effort, "Gods of Thunder", is officially finished and ready for release. In an interview with Express FM, Tatler revealed the record has been mixed by heavy metal mainstay Andy Sneap and has already been submitted to Silver Lining Music. The new material is tentatively scheduled for a January 2027 release.

Tatler, who also shares NWOBHM pedigree with Diamond Head, spoke candidly about the creative process of balancing his personal writing style with the established SAXON identity. While he admits to occasionally questioning whether a riff feels "SAXON-ish" enough, he notes that frontman Biff Byford takes the final call on the material. The duo spent time in Brighton rehearsing the songs before moving into the studio to record the full arrangements.

He’s been great. These gigs have been fantastic.

Reflecting on Byford's health, Tatler dismissed concerns that recent medical hurdles would hinder the band's momentum. Despite a triple bypass in 2019 and a subsequent cancer scare, Tatler noted that Byford appeared "back to normal" during rehearsals, showcasing a powerful voice and commanding stage presence. The band is set to bring back the iconic 30-foot mechanical Eagle and the "Castles & Eagles" production for their upcoming UK and Ireland tour dates, ensuring the spectacle remains as massive as ever.