Review Summary: A unique and spiritual work of art that influenced The Mantle by Agalloch.
Sand was a duo comprised of British songwriter Ed Ball and the co-owner of Creation Records, Richard Green. Ed Ball’s background with post-punk and neo-psychedelic rock bands like Television Personalities, ‘O’ Level, and Teenage Filmstars is felt in the album’s atmosphere. “Felatio” is an epic opener, beginning with strumming guitars and launching into gorgeous synth melodies and rolling percussion. The song progresses with a triumphant spirit and sounds like the accompaniment to flying over snowy mountains and fantasy landscapes. “This Thinking Feeling Moment” follows with a more somber mood, an arpeggiated guitar melody repeating throughout while synths and sound effects swirl in and out of the soundscape. “Consent” and “Absolution” are more laid back and sunny, resembling Harmonia and 1980s era Tangerine Dream. The album is highly diverse and serene, invoking a consistently unique atmosphere.
The Dynamic Curve is a thought-provoking listening experience able to sound both retro and ahead of its time, even influencing one of the best metal albums of the century,
The Mantle by Agalloch. Sand were a short-lived project, but they made something special in their brief tenure that sounds both adventurous and blissful.
