Wheels of Steel cover

Wheels of Steel

Saxon · 1980

38 min · 9 tracks · heavy metal

A thunderous blend of powerful riffs and anthemic choruses that define the early heavy metal sound.

Why this album works

'Wheels of Steel' is significant for its commercial success, reaching No. 5 on the UK Albums Chart and helping to propel Saxon into the mainstream heavy metal spotlight. The album is often credited with influencing later heavy metal acts and remains a staple in the genre, celebrated for its energetic performances and enduring tracks.
Best for
energetic workout motivation short, punchy songs dynamic emotional journeys
Context
Released on May 5, 1980, 'Wheels of Steel' is Saxon's second studio album, following their self-titled debut from 1979. At this point, the band was establishing its presence in the burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene, solidifying their reputation with a more polished production and memorable songwriting.
Stylistic neighbors
Ozzy Osbourne· Alice Cooper· Rob Zombie

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Motorcycle Man Standout 3:54
  • 2 Stand Up and Be Counted 3:05
  • 3 747 (Strangers in the Night) Standout 4:53
  • 4 Wheels of Steel Standout 5:55
  • 5 Freeway Mad 2:41
  • 6 See the Light Shining 4:50
  • 7 Street Fighting Gang 3:09
  • 8 Suzie Hold On 4:29
  • 9 Machine Gun 5:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata