Salem; The NWOBHM Band Whose Time Has Finally Come!

New Tricks – EP (2011)

Source // gp1.wac.edgecastcdn.net

New(ish) tricks was exactly what fans got when the EP of the same name was released in 2011. A thrilling 3 track example of Salem’s varied songwriting skill in a modern context, New Tricks announced that Salem were seriously back in the game.

The title track, “High Stakes“, was high drama, insistent sinewy riffs bounding around Simon Saxby’s dark vocal performance while “This Heart Is Mine” showcased a band unafraid to stick to their classic roots, confident that there was still a place in the world for their brooding brand of rock balladry. The remaining track, “Retribution”, completed the puzzle; a chugging rock ‘n’ roll number purpose built to get crowds jumping. 

 X Rated – EP (2013)

Source // Salem

Two years on and EP number 2 followed, brimming with bigger choruses and a stronger sense of identity.

The title track was another melodic metal masterclass, powered by a monster riff and a Zeppelin-esque sense of grandeur while “When Love’s In Your Heart” took fans back to the early 80’s, the sound of the NWOBHM at its purest. “Ask The Lonely” maintained the momentum, hard rock harnessed by a band who sounded at ease with themselves and on a creative high.

All fans wanted now was the first full length album in Salem’s career!