Saracen

SARACEN

Vox in Exelso
2006

From L - R:

Richard Bendelow – bass & vocals
Paul Bradder – keyboards
Mark Cross: Drums
Rob Bendelow: Guitars
Steve Bettney – lead vocals (not in pic)

Discography:

Vox in Exelso release date July 21
Escape Records UK 2006

Biography:

British rock band Saracen are now in their 25th year…..yet musically speaking they’re as strong as ever! Their unique brand of heavy symphonic rock music is proving as popular now, with fans from every continent, as it was back in the band’s halcyon days of the early 80s.

The combination of original members, ‘new blood’, new albums, and the backing of a new Record Company, promises to be an exciting cocktail for the band’s third decade..…

The band is, and always has been, a classic 5-piece line-up of Drums, Bass, Guitar, Keyboards & Vocals. From the original five, two members are still there at the heart of Saracen…

STEVE BETTNEY – lead vocals.
Steve is the only band member to have appeared on every Saracen recording. His evocative vocal style- clear, melodic yet powerful – has shaped the character of the music, that some reviewers have called ‘Epic Rock’.

ROB BENDELOW – guitar.
Rob is a founder member of Saracen (and its predecessor ‘Lammergier’) and his instantly recognisable heavy guitar style is also one of Saracen’s signature characteristics. Rob has been responsible for writing all the band’s material.

PAUL BRADDER – keyboards.
Rich, lush keyboards are integral to the Saracen sound. Paul is a consummate rock keyboard maestro, who first performed with the band in 2003. His talents will be there for all to enjoy on the band’s next album.

RICHARD BENDELOW – bass & vocals.
Richard’s impact on Saracen includes reducing the average age of the band by around ten years! Son of guitarist Rob, he handles the bass guitar role with aplomb, together with his significant vocal harmony contributions.

MARK CROSS – drums.
For the forthcoming album ‘Vox In Excelso’ the line-up is completed by the powerhouse drummer whose previous collaborations have included German metal masters ‘Helloween’ and Deep Purple legend Ian Gillan.

Saracen's initial reign was in the late 70s and early 80s, which saw the release of their now legendary debut album 'Heroes, Saints & Fools'. Some twenty years later, in 2003, they then surprised & delighted fans with the release of 'Red Sky'. Both albums plus bonus tracks now feature in a special 'boxed set', with new artwork and mastering.

Three songs appear twice within this digipac – different versions recorded more than two decades apart! Add to that a brief history of the band and the full suite of lyrics, this has proved to be a ‘must have’ for Saracen fans, both old and new.