How a mysterious British collective redefined the modern album release through radical anonymity and volume.
In short: Sault operates as a shadowy, anonymous music collective that avoids interviews and traditional promotion. Helmed by producer Inflo and vocalist Cleo Sol, the group has released thirteen studio albums since 2019. Their unconventional path includes surprise-dropping five albums simultaneously and performing only twice in their entire, highly acclaimed career.
The project emerged in early 2019 with the release of tracks like "We Are the Sun" and "Don't Waste My Time." From the outset, Sault cultivated an aura of mystery, operating as a collective where many collaborators remain unidentified. While known contributors include artists such as Little Simz, Michael Kiwanuka, and Chronixx, the group’s core identity remains anchored by Inflo and Cleo Sol. Their output is stylistically diverse, blending R&B, gospel, house, and disco, while consistently centering Black-centric themes.
The group’s release strategy is notably disruptive. In November 2022, they surprise-released five albums—11, AIIR, Earth, Today & Tomorrow, and Untitled (God)—as a free download via WeTransfer, accompanied by a message describing the music as an offering to God. This release featured 56 tracks, which Variety noted as potentially the largest volume of new music ever released at once by a major artist. The album 11 subsequently won an Ivor Novello Award for Best Album in 2023.
Despite their prolific recording schedule, Sault maintained a strict distance from the public eye for years, refusing to give interviews or release music videos. Their live presence has been equally sparse and unpredictable. After teasing a performance in late 2023, they debuted live in London that December to critical acclaim. A planned 2024 international tour was cancelled, leaving their second live appearance to occur at the 2025 All Points East festival. This five-hour set, featuring appearances by Yasiin Bey and others, received mixed reviews, contrasting with the universal acclaim garnered by earlier works like 2020's Untitled (Black Is) and Untitled (Rise).
As of January 2026, the collective continues to evolve with the release of Chapter 1. This project, featuring collaborations with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, reflects the group's stated philosophy of moving with patience and belief. By prioritizing silence and rhythm over traditional industry cycles, Sault has carved out a unique space in contemporary music, proving that artistic impact can thrive without the standard machinery of fame.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Sault (band)
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