There are many bands which try to hit the mark with an albums first song, and more than often, the fans are left with something which hasn't quite met their expectations. However, with SAOR I was blown completely away. When first hearing it, I thought 'Okay, this is actually pretty good'. But when I found out it was one man recording all of this, I was astounded.

A few of us metal heads, are familiar with the genre "Celtic Metal" and another few of us, including me, are fans of Celtic Metal. From the opening song "Roots" you can hear the Celtic influences, in a way, which makes you want to get up, and one-man-mosh around your room like mad. But at the same time, it makes you want to be by yourself, with a cigarette or a pint, just chilling by yourself. Andy Marshall is a very talented guitarist, and although the guitars aren't rhythm and solo all over the album, they provide a very well needed back ground sound, especially with the sound of the flute (I believe, apologies if wrong) making the sweet melody over the top.

One of my favorite things about the album, is the vocals. I'll admit, after the first song, I was expecting to be especially disappointed. But again, Andy Marshall never falls to deliver, even with the quite, background growls at the beginning of "Carved In Stone". Again, with this track, it makes you want to be covered in mud, at a festival, moshing. But it takes you back to that sweet spot, and back to the mosh, without warning, which brought a rise of emotion within me. It was at this point, I discovered how much I LOVE this band. Even with the song "Saorsa" which is considerably shorter, compared to the first 12+ minute songs, it just takes you to that sweet spot, despite being a more instrumental mellow piece. Everything about this band, is just brilliant to me.

"A Highland Lament" which is the fourth track on the album, sounds almost like it came from a fantasy story, it just keeps you wanting to listen, and craving to hear more about the band. Even with "A Pictish Pride" which is just over 6 minutes long, provides an amazing ending track for the album, which just makes me think, SAOR should make it big, and I really wouldn't be surprised if it were soon. I cannot stress how much I absolutely love this band at the moment. I'm incredibly impressed with how it sparks emotion within me, and how much I just want to show everyone I know a few songs. I'm probably ranting a bit, but if you like Celtic/Symphonic Metal, you'll understand what I mean when you listen to it. SAOR even remind me a little bit of FINNTROLL with the mix of heavy guitars, drums, bass and vocals, and yet the beauty of Celtic Music. Again, I absolutely love this album, and I'm very excited to hear more from the band.