Album Review: Saor – Caledonia (Season of Mist)

Saor (Andy Marshall) has taken everything learned over the past decade and created ‘Caledonia’. Five tracks from Roots, Aura, and Guardians rebuilt from the ground up with producer Chris Fielding. It will be released on November 6th, via Season of Mist.

I love this idea and actually think more should do this. It’s a great way to show growth and often, it’s an opportunity for an artist to deliver a more realised vision. I understand that to some that this might be sacrilegious to some degree, but this isn’t George Lucas and Star Wars. Saor isn’t replacing these tracks, and the originals will always exist in their original form. This album is an update; a proud showcase of how far things have come, an entry point for new fans, and something different for long term fans to enjoy.

Everyone wins as far as I’m concerned. Especially when you consider the quality of the tracks that have been given an update. Five tracks that embody the grandeur, beauty, and intensity of Saor’s atmospheric black metal sound.

I’m sure I’m just preaching to the choir when I tell you that this is a stunner of a release and that Saor’s updates give everything more room to breathe. A track like Aura already had so many layers, but what lies below the surface is now unmistakable and the sense of drama within has been heightened to extravagant heights. At nearly twelve minute long, it is an epic in every sense of the word and a superb example of loveliness and power.

I love it, but I don’t love it quite as much as The Awakening. A favourite even before Saor gave it new life, it is one of the most potent showcases of Caledonian folk melody and raging blackened metal. For me, it personifies Saor. The past, present, and future of Andy Marshall.

None of this might feel necessary, but once you understand just how far Andy has come as a creative force, you’ll realise it is so very necessary. Tracks like Carved in Stone and Hearth are special, but these modern versions let’s them shine in a whole new way. Different enough, without losing the majesty of the original.

Capping it off is Tears of a Nation, and if you know the original, I shouldn’t need to tell you just how passionate a listen this is. If you don’t, you’re in for a treat. Andy’s vocals are even more distinct, the flute is even more pronounced, and the blackened guitars and drums even more intense. The ending is so good, and this updated version makes it even more impressive.

Saor, as stunning as ever. Taking what was, polishing it, and delivering it back to listeners, gleaming. Which would be enough to make it a must listen, except subtle and clever changes add a whole new dimension to things. I love it, and so will you.

Saor – Caledonia Track Listing:

1. Aura MMXXVI
2. The Awakening MMXXVI
3. Carved in Stone MMXXVI
4. Hearth MMXXVI
5. Tears of a Nation MMXXVI

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