UK-based experimental duo Sandscape release their latest abstract, ambient EP, Phenomenology via Octopoda Records / Bored Of Works.
“This record is about the overwhelming intensity of being, and the results of being curious and finding an altered route through light and dark in life. It’s been the longest slow-burn of a project, taking six years to complete – and each song is deeply reflective of a moment within that time. It’s been a long time coming.”
-Sandscape
‘hello’ is an iridescent introduction to the spell-world Sandscape has composed on Phenomenology. With subtle industrial humming, flickering whispers, and petal-soft vocals, this track acts as a gateway to the ethereal essence of the album. As an electric fuzz underpins ‘hello,’ the vibes close with a shaky familiarity in the air that you can’t quite place.
‘half closed eyes’ feels like trying to divine the ripples of a dream. Asking the counsel of shadow, shifting fauna, and breath, this song carries that sacredness to further sonic domains as it sounds more trance-like with every beat. As the mellow vocals continue to melt along to a clamouring soundscape, ‘half closed eyes’ ends with the sense of coming full circle.
‘lunar dance’ is the track for summoning your Self out of the cycles and ripping your inner power from the brink. Bass and percussion-heavy with gliding strings, the strength of the dance is made manifest in the tones; even if it is not seen, it is felt. As the melody sways and arcs, ‘lunar dance’ lights the journey with its own luminescence, sailing toward an unfolding future.
‘aeons’ also opens percussion-heavy but in a warmer way than previously displayed on Phenomenology. Contented and gentle, this track feels like a safe place to rest. Coming to the end of the album, ‘aeons’ stands as the first track of reassurance that we’ve landed where we’ve needed to in this astral countryside. The calm after the storm, ‘aeons’ is the faint lullaby that guides you home.
Otherworldly and shrouded in imposing fog, Sandscape pull you into a total stupor on Phenomenology. Atmospheric and vaporous, these tracks leave pure imprints on the subconscious, solidifying Sandscape’s latest tonal experiment as a huge success.
Follow Sandscape on: bandcamp | Eliza Shaddad website | Daniel Sonabend website | youtube