INTERVIEW: Sands — Music Musings & Such

INTERVIEW:

Sands

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SANDS is quite to the point and brief when…

it comes to his answers, it seems! That enigma is something that makes one want to investigate the music and discover more about the man behind it. Sands talks about the new double A-side, Let’s Run/Echoes, and tackling a Gene Clark classic. I ask whether the double A-side is coming back into fashion and what the next move is from him; whether there are going to be any tour dates – and whether Sands expected his eponymous E.P. to get such a positive reaction.

I find out about the music that Sands responds to and what he thinks about the digital takeover – whether it is preferable to physical formats – a new artist we should check out; whether he is in the Christmas spirit – and a few words (not even that!) to new musicians coming through.

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Hi, Sands. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi. All good. I’m busy mixing.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I put out the Sands EP in April and a single a couple of weeks ago. More to come in 2018.

Check stuff out http://www.s-a-n-d-s.net/.

Let’s Run/Echoes is your double A-side. What was the decision behind releasing a double A-side?

I thought both tracks had kind of the same relevance to me - as well a common musical thread. Plus; I liked the fact it reminded me of artists of the 1960s (that I love).

It seems the double A-side is coming back into fashion. Why do you think this is? Do you miss the days of physical releases – and a time when artists released double A-sides more frequently?!

Dunno. Maybe could be a sort of revival thing…

I don't want to sound like I’m looking too much at the past - as much as I love it; we must always move forward - but I definitely miss that. There was a different magic in it. I mean, you had two options to listen to music: turn on the radio and be lucky your favourite is on; go to a record shop and buy it.

If it's not in stock; order it and come back later on – don’t rely on the free Internet binge.

Echoes is your take on Gene Clark’s classic. How did you come to discover the song originally? What is it about the track that spoke to you?

I love The Byrds but, when I heard his solo stuff, I was completely blown away.

I got into his catalogue and so much fell in love with the songwriter, singer and musician - as well as the character. There’s an incredible depth to him - truly touching and inspiring. He can have some swing, too. Echoes is the case. It clicked with me lyrically and I wish I’d written the music.

It’s like a beautiful picture or painting. It takes you in a world of his own.

The video for Let’s Run is out. What was that experience like? Do you like the processes involved in a music video?

I wasn't involved in the making of it, honestly. I think it's a great visual that my friend did. I think it's a nice match for the track and I love the tone of it.

I'll tell you next time, then…

Your Sands EP was backed by some big names and publications. Did you expect it to receive such praise?

No, I didn't! Well...“thanks”…

Is there going to be more music next year do you think? What do you have planned?

Another E.P. is currently being mixed - and is coming out in spring.

Who are the musicians you idolise? Which artists did you grow up listening to?

So many I love…

Lately; I've been a lot into Nick Cave and Iggy Pop.

It seems instruments are as important to you as any other aspect of music. Which instrument did you take up first? What was it about composition and performance that resonated with you at a young age?

My first was the drums but, with the guitar and those harmonies, I discovered the chance to write a tune.

Playing along with records made it clearer.

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

An Australian band called Surfing. I love them.