SAOR means free, without obligations, unconstrained. All of these characteristics are intrinsic to the music of SAOR, the musical entity spearheaded by sole member Andy Marshall. As a lone wanderer proudly shouting the tales and myths of his people, his culture and his region from the tops of misty Caledonian mountains for the wind to carry, Andy has carved a solitary, yet strikingly inspiring path with SAOR.
Now, the award-winning Caledonian metal pioneer has returned with “Origins”, the mastermind’s fifth full-length album, which will be released on June 24th through Season Of Mist. “Origins”, delivers his profoundly atmospheric hybrid of Black and Folk Metal that takes the listener deep into the Scottish heartlands.
In conjunction with the album announcement, SAOR is now sharing the title track along with a music video, which was created by Guilherme Henriques.
SAOR mastermind Andy Marshall comments: “It’s been a long wait and an unpredictable few years but I’m very happy to finally be sharing this song with everyone! A lot of hard work went into making Origins and I can’t wait to let you all here the full album in June.”
And he adds: “This album is a lot more guitar driven. During the pandemic I listened to a lot of classic Heavy Metal and I think you’ll hear the influences on the dual lead guitars and solos. I also wanted this to be my heaviest album with emphasis on the riffs. My harsh vocals have changed from deep growls to more of a Black Metal style. Since the subject of the album is the Picts, I wanted a pagan theme throughout, and so that aspect is a lot more prominent than in the previous albums. I also used instruments such as the Carnyx and tribal drumming to convey that feeling.”
As much as we have food for thought, assured and guaranteed entertainment and inspiration for the months to come as we listen to and explore “Origins” and its themes, its creator is naturally already moving on. Andy doesn’t need much to create the worlds SAOR albums inhabit, and his most powerful tool is always with him. “I do have my own little office/studio in my home where I write music and lyrics, but it’s nothing special. My imagination is the most powerful tool for SAOR.” Not only do we vehemently agree, we would even say that imagination is the most powerful tool, always, for everyone. The one untamed weapon we all possess and can use at all times. Free. Without obligations. Unconstrained.
“Origins” tracklisting:
- Call of the Carnyx
- Fallen
- The Ancient Ones
- Aurora
- Beyond the Wall
- Origins
You can watch the official music video for “Origins” below:
