Belfast metal pioneers SWEET SAVAGE are set to release their new album, Bang, on September 12 via earMUSIC. The album’s second single, “The Chosen One”, is now available for streaming below.
Formed in Belfast in 1979 by bassist/vocalist Ray Haller and future DIO/DEF LEPPARD guitarist Vivian Campbell, SWEET SAVAGE were part of the first wave of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal. However, unlike many of their contemporaries, SWEET SAVAGE never released a full-length album during their original run. Instead, they earned cult status, especially after METALLICA covered their song “Killing Time” — co-written by Campbell — and released it as the B-side to their multi-platinum single “The Unforgiven”. The bond between the two legendary bands remains strong to this day.
Now, with Bang, SWEET SAVAGE return stronger than ever. They’re not chasing nostalgia, but their roots are impossible to miss — a fierce blend of high-energy metal, industrial undertones, and punk rock’s raw, DIY spirit.
From the explosive opening track to the heavy, slow-burning “Live and Die” and the anthemic “The Chosen One”, Bang delivers a dynamic listening experience without ever losing its intensity. Each song hits with purpose — this is the sound of a band that has nothing left to prove, but plenty to say.
Frontman Ray Haller is joined by longtime drummer Marty McCloskey and guitar powerhouse Phil Edgar. The album also includes guitar contributions from former member Simon McBride, who played and toured with SWEET SAVAGE before embarking on a solo career and becoming a member of DEEP PURPLE.
“Bang” track listing:
01. Bang
02. Bad F Robot
03. Leave Me Alone
04. I See The Light
05. I Don’t Know
06. Live And Die
07. The Meltdown
08. Mad World
09. The Chosen One
10. Dirtyland
11. Time
12. Outside
13. Victorious
