British heavy metal legends SAXON have completed mixing their 25th studio album with longtime producer and engineer Andy Sneap, marking yet another milestone in one of the most prolific careers in NWOBHM history. Frontman Biff Byford shared the update in a video message posted on January 27, saying the album is fully mixed and fans should expect title, artwork, and tracklist announcements over the coming months, with a targeted release in late 2026.
In the same video, Byford delivered deeply personal and welcome news: six months after undergoing surgery for bowel cancer, his most recent CT scan has come back completely clear with no signs of recurrence. "Everything is clear," he said with visible relief, adding that he continues to feel strong and optimistic about his health going forward. Byford's cancer diagnosis, which became public in mid-2025, had sent shockwaves through the heavy metal community, with fans and peers rallying around the 73-year-old vocalist.
Byford first revealed his diagnosis during a period when SAXON were forced to reschedule certain tour dates, but characteristically refused to let it derail the band's creative momentum. He continued to work on vocals for the new album throughout his treatment and recovery, demonstrating the same resilience that has kept SAXON relevant and productive for over four decades.
The upcoming LP will be the follow-up to 2024's critically acclaimed "Hell, Fire And Damnation," which was praised by critics and fans alike as one of the strongest entries in the SAXON discography. Andy Sneap's involvement behind the mixing desk ensures sonic continuity, as he has worked extensively with SAXON in recent years and is himself a respected figure in the metal world through his work with JUDAS PRIEST, ACCEPT, and TESTAMENT.
SAXON continue to be a dominant force on the European festival circuit, with confirmed dates at Wacken Open Air and other major events in summer 2026. The band's relentless work ethic — 25 studio albums in 47 years — stands as a testament to their enduring passion for heavy metal.