Live Music Review: Saxon & Uriah Heep – Spring 2025 at The Plaza Orlando
Spring 2025 saw two legendary rock acts, Saxon and Uriah Heep, hit the stage at The Plaza Live in Orlando, delivering a night to remember for their devoted fans. With decades of experience between them, both bands showcased their timeless musical prowess, leaving the crowd thrilled with their energetic performances and classic hits.
The night kicked off with Uriah Heep, the British rock veterans who have been churning out their signature blend of hard rock and progressive influences since the late ’60s. The band took the stage with their trademark thunderous riffs, led by guitarist Mick Box, who remains a constant force in the group. They opened their set with “Easy Livin’,” one of their most iconic tracks, instantly setting the tone for what would become a high-octane performance.
Vocalist Bernie Shaw, with his impressive range and commanding stage presence, steered the audience through a set that spanned the band’s vast catalog. Heep’s setlist was a delightful mix of the old and the new, ensuring that both long-time followers and newer fans got their fill. Highlights included “Gypsy,” “July Morning,” and “Look at Yourself,” tracks that never fail to spark nostalgia. The band’s rhythm section, bassist Dave Rimmer and drummer Russell Gilbrook, provided the solid backbone, keeping the energy levels sky-high.
Despite being in the game for over five decades, Uriah Heep showed no signs of slowing down. Their performance was tight, polished, and full of passion, with each member delivering at the top of their game. The sound at The Plaza was pristine, with every note of the band’s complex arrangements cutting through the air, enhancing the live experience for the fans who packed the venue. The crowd responded with enthusiastic cheers, a testament to the band’s enduring appeal.
After a brief interlude, it was time for Saxon to take over. Known as one of the pioneers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, the band has remained a powerful force in the rock scene. Led by frontman Biff Byford, who still commands the stage with the charisma and power of someone half his age, Saxon launched into their set with “Denim and Leather,” a fan favorite and an anthem of the metal community.
The band’s energy was contagious as they tore through anthems like “Wheels of Steel,” “Princess of the Night,” and “Strong Arm of the Law.” Byford’s vocals were as strong as ever, and the twin-guitar attack of Paul Quinn and Doug Scarratt provided a blistering backdrop to their hard-hitting sound. The crowd was on their feet, headbanging and singing along with every word, proving that Saxon’s music transcends generations.
Saxon also paid tribute to their roots, offering fans a taste of their newer material, but it was their classic songs that truly ignited the room. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, with Byford frequently engaging with the audience, creating a true sense of camaraderie between band and fans.
The night concluded with both bands joining forces for a memorable encore, delivering a powerful rendition of “The Green Manalishi (With the Two Pronged Crown)” by Fleetwood Mac. This collaborative performance highlighted the mutual respect both bands share for one another and cemented the night as one for the history books.
In conclusion, Saxon and Uriah Heep’s Spring 2025 concert at The Plaza Orlando was an extraordinary display of rock and metal excellence. Both bands proved that, even after decades in the industry, their passion for performing remains as strong as ever. For those fortunate enough to witness this spectacle, it was clear that both bands continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of live music.
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