We're not worthy, We're not worthy... Yes 'Saxon' have done it again, another blistering release of old school 'British Metal' of the highest calibre and this one rocks better than the exceptional 'Metalhead'. Continuing where they left off, we're gifted with a blend of NWOBHM and Power Metal that has made their last two releases so memorable. 'Killing Ground' also features more diversity, but still maintains the all important crunch, that has dictated 'Metalhead' and 'Unleash the Beast' before it. A limited number of albums were released with an additional CD, containing eight re-recorded songs of early 'Saxon' classics. These are all an improvement over the originals and feature an excellent production and slightly heavier feel.

The intro is of a battle ground featuring machinegun fire, horses and explosions, this develops into a haunting acoustic bell driven melody and in turn flows into the title track. The opening for 'Killing Ground' is absolute Metal bliss, the tolling bell picks up pace and is joined with a heavy galloping rhythm. Sweet riff work, frenzied guitaring and great vocals make this, one of the top tracks. The intro and first song here mimic the arrangement from the album 'Crusader', but this is even better. 'Court of the Crimson King' is a cover of the 'King Crimson' classic from 69', and is a splendid version that sounds great, executed with heavy guitaring. 'Biff Byford's' underestimated vocals also sound stunning on this tracks and being a 'King Crimson' fan, this is my favourite cut. 'Dragons Lair' is pure ripping genius, that is more than a little reminiscent of 'Conquistador' from 'Metalhead', but there's no complains from me, both shred. The paced is dropped down for the snaking 'You Don't know what you've got', plenty of sweet riff work dictate the pace of this top groover. 'Deeds of Glory' is a first rate old school 'sing-a-long' 'Saxon' style, with a wealth of solid guitaring, thundering rhythm and weighty chorus. Other smoking tracks include the weaving plodder 'Coming Home', and the solid but slightly repetitive 'Hell Freezes Over'. 'Running for the Border' is another grooving staple, with a mesmerising chug and strong guitar work. The apocalyptic rocker 'Shadows on the Wall', is cleverly done with patches of, aggressive, almost 'Death Metal' vocals and lighter airier sections, but in my opinion they don't quite pull it off. The album closes with another top 'Metal Anthem', 'Rock is Our Life', makes you think of earlier releases, in which this would not look out of place, a real full-on carefree rocker.

I'm not going to go into detail about the re-recorded classics, as its just going to upset those that couldn't get their hands on it, but take it from me they sound magnificent. Its about time 'Saxon' released a live album, just of their more recent songs, as there's more than enough quality cuts to match their early stuff!