British heavy metal veterans Saxon have officially unveiled the initial U.K. and Ireland leg of their massive 2027 “Gods Of Thunder” world tour. While further international dates will be announced in the coming months, the band is already generating major excitement by confirming the resurrection of their legendary 30-foot mechanized Eagle for the upcoming run.
With the exception of the Cardiff stop due to venue size constraints, the massive Eagle will fly at every single date on the trek. Attendees can also look forward to experiencing the band’s celebrated “Castles & Eagles” stage setup, which promises to deliver one of the most visually stunning live presentations in the veteran group’s extensive history.
The iconic metal bird was originally constructed in the early 1980s as Saxon geared up for the touring cycle supporting their highly influential studio album, Denim And Leather. Built by the Midlands-based company LSD, the structure was famously assembled utilizing actual airport runway landing lights. Following its debut during a pre-tour rehearsal in London, the towering prop permanently cemented itself as an enduring symbol of the heavy metal pioneers.
Hovering high above the crowds during the band’s massive arena runs, the emblematic bird quickly evolved into the official mascot for Saxon. It even directly inspired the title of their highly acclaimed 1982 U.K. Top 5 live album, The Eagle Has Landed. Ever since its creation, diehard supporters have consistently requested its presence at live shows.
Saxon frontman Biff Byford shared his excitement regarding the monumental stage prop’s impending return:
“We wanted to make the ‘Gods Of Thunder‘ U.K. and Ireland tour extra special. And what better way than to fly our beloved Saxon Eagle again… Get ready for take-off!”
Saxon 2027 “Gods Of Thunder” U.K. and Ireland Tour Dates
- Feb 13 – Wolverhampton, Civic Hall
- Feb 14 – Glasgow, O2 Academy
- Feb 16 – Belfast, Telegraph Building
- Feb 17 – Dublin, 3Olympia Theatre
- Feb 19 – Manchester, O2 Apollo
- Feb 20 – Newcastle, O2 City Hall
- Feb 21 – Sheffield, City Hall
- Feb 23 – Cardiff, The Great Hall
- Feb 24 – Bristol, Beacon
- Feb 25 – Southampton, O2 Guildhall
- Feb 27 – London, Eventim Apollo
Tickets for all performances will officially go on sale this Friday, June 26 at 9:00 a.m. local time. Fans can secure their spots and find additional tour information by visiting www.saxon747.com.
