The Dark Saga is the fourth studio album by American heavy metal band Iced Earth. Released on July 23, 1996, it was the band's first album to feature drummer Mark Prator, as well as the last with bassist Dave Abell and lead guitarist Randall Shawver. The Dark Saga was also the first Iced Earth album to be co-produced by Jim Morris, who since then has worked on all of the band's releases.
Recorded in early 1996, The Dark Saga is a concept album based on the Todd McFarlane comic book character Spawn (who also appears on the album's cover).
Writing and recording
Musically The Dark Saga is much more melodic and simplified compared to Iced Earth's previous albums (majority of the songs on The Dark Saga are under four minutes long). Schaffer has stated that Burnt Offerings was not his intended musical direction, which is why The Dark Saga is much more keen on melody and vocals. Recorded between January and February 1996, The Dark Saga was the first Iced Earth album not to be co-produced by Tom Morris. but allowed the band to go along with it.
Release and promotion
The Dark Saga was released on May 20, 1996.
Critical reception
Reviews for The Dark Saga were fairly positive, but some viewed the album as a disappointment, following Burnt Offerings.
- Randall Shawver – lead guitar