Crusader finds Saxon polishing their sound for a broader, more radio-friendly appeal, which has caused them a bit of grief despite being a solidly put together album. While the production is slicker and some of the rawness is dialed down, Biff Byford’s vocals still carry conviction, and the riffs remain solid if a bit restrained. I wasn’t into Saxon back in the 80s, and hilariously, this is the first album of theirs that I landed years ago and now I have a soft spot this album that represents what I thought was so uncool about them back in my stupid teen years. But fuck it all, I love this record! Life is a trip and I am a total dork, it seems.
1984 US pressing from Carrere.
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