The success of Suidakra has reached one milestone performing as a band for over ten years...the band now ventures in a new direction, with a mixture of melodic black metal and tantalizing Viking folk metal. "Caledonia," the new release, was named after the Roman Empire's name for Scotland. Suidakra strive to bring forth a mystical legend and the aura of the past with a trilogy CD.

The opening track, "Highland Hills," truly has a Scottish feel, with the crack of lightning, raindrops and bagpipes giving way to some acoustics for the first minute. Arkadius enters with vocals and the level of energy is set free. Mixing harsh vocals by Arkadius and clean vocals by Marcel Schoenen just adds another dimension to the ever-growing style of black metal.

The Scottish essence is felt throughout the CD, and there's some amazing acoustic work to be heard. When it's time to plug in the volume, Arkadius can slam the strings with the best of them. "Evoke the Demon" is one of the better tracks, which puts each member in the spotlight. The drumming by Lars Wehner, who kicks the double thunder into gear by hooking up with bassist Marcus Riewaldt, gives a great mid-section beat. You want to hear some class...check out "Ramble." It sure sounds like a sentimental instrumental: but don't let your guard down, as "Dawning Tempest" is a full-fledged assault. The one thing that might perturb fans is the Scottish accent of Arkadius' vocals.

At times, the CD mellows and does a great job of changing direction with the tracking to keep you alert. Check out the video for "The IXth Legion" at the following link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qz8EfkS4KK0