Saor bring Amidst The Ruins back home to Scotland after a short run of dates around the UK. Cistvaen and Oakenthrone are in support.
OAKENTHRONE
It’s always nice to visit Edinburgh, but it’s certainly even better when the reason is a gig like this.
Upon arrival, the first band, Mancunians Oakenthrone, had already started their set. As I stepped into the room, I quickly notice the band’s merch table set up on the left side of the venue while making my way toward the stage. The crowd is still settling in, but the music immediately pulls attention forward.
Oakenthrone possess striking visual detail: both guitarists and the bassist are playing white instruments, which stand out clearly under the stage lights, almost like warriors brandishing shining axes. The three of them move with great synchronicity throughout the set going from the absorbing Litany Of Proper Death to a more harsh Astral Binding, often shifting together as the songs progress. The drumming is tight, forming a solid rhythmic base, while the guitars frequently harmonize, building melodic layers that work well with the band’s atmospheric approach.
CISTVAEN
Next come Cistvaen, who push the evening into heavier territory. Their sound feels darker and more direct, leaning into rawer black metal elements while still maintaining an atmospheric edge. The bass player spins across the stage almost like in a ritual dance, adding a strong visual presence to the performance, while the vocals roar through the room, directly involving the crowd. By this point the venue has filled considerably, and the audience respond with growing energy in front of the stage.
Throughout the night, the organisation of the event is solid. The changeovers between bands are smooth and right on time, keeping the evening flowing without long pauses and helping maintain the atmosphere in the room.
SAOR
Once Saor appear on stage, a sudden calm settles across the venue, immediately followed by thunderous applause and a clear sense of excitement from the crowd.
From the very first moments, the band transport the audience onto the misty peaks of the Highlands. Their blend of atmospheric black metal and Celtic folk elements unfold naturally, moving between expansive passages and heavier sections while keeping the audience fully engaged.
The flautist, Ella (Elizabeth), always stands out, both visually and musically. With her almost fairy-like appearance and the flowing, peaceful sound of her flute and voice, she adds a distinctive layer to the band’s atmosphere. Hearing Amidst the Ruins performed live is a unique moment of the evening, one that resonates strongly throughout the venue.
Overall, this was a strong night for fans of atmospheric and folk-influenced black metal, and Edinburgh, with its historic streets and the shadow of the castle in the distance, feels like the perfect photographic frame for a night like this.
Saor: Website
Cistvaen: Bandcamp
Oakenthrone: Bandcamp