ALBUM REVIEW: Origins – Saor

As the years progress, we have bore witness to a string of one-man projects but none quite as impactful as SAOR. The Scottish mastermind Andy Marshall is poised to unveil his latest effort entitled Origins which is due for release on June 24th via Season Of Mist. Will this release further cement his legacy?

Call Of The Carnyx welcomes you with a tense, dramatic intro that surges into life with plentiful melodies and energetic instrumentation. The ebbing and flowing tempo goes from soothing vocal lines to exhilarating drum fills to riffs laced with enticing hooks, building formidable momentum as it progresses. Fallen follows in similar fashion with diverse layering and shifts in pacing to add to the developing mood. The tones displayed are so infectious that minutes float by whilst you are completely transfixed on what is unfolding. The Ancient Ones delves deeper into the folk inspired elements, combining polished riffing with upbeat vibrancy. This meshes remarkably well with the harsher black metal segments.

Aurora lets prominent bass lines lead the way before bursting into another flourish of lively musicianship. Despite the minimalistic vocal inclusions this track has such an endearing, intriguing narrative that has the power to evoke a variety of emotions so effortlessly. Beyond The Wall sprints out of the gate with a rush of blast beats and swift riff work. The combination of clean singing and gritty growls proves to be a potent mixture. Spooky whispered voices send shivers down your neck before ushering in another boisterous wave of aggression. Origins proudly gallops towards the end of this journey with one last triumphant exhibition of impressive instrumental concoctions. Vicious vocal lines slot straight into the mix of soothing tones and frenzied intensity.

Origins transports you to the top of a mountain, allowing you to breathe in the fresh country air and survey the beautiful surroundings as you are blissfully serenaded by a wealth of creativity. SAOR continue to impress and to even contemplate that this project is constructed solely by one musician is simply baffling. Andy Marshall is a national treasure and deserves all the credit in the world for blessing us with his gift.

Rating: 9/10

Origins is set for release on June 24th via Season Of Mist.

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