Santa Claws are bringing back Sands of Time, an album that combines the vibrant energy of 1990s rock, elements of Britpop and a clear sense of melody. In its eight tracks the French group manages to mix crunchy guitars with complex arrangements and rich analogue sounds, shifting smoothly between the intensity of alternative rock and more personal, melancholy moods. The album puts songwriting at the centre, letting its melodic nature and guitar-based sound determine the overall character of the record.
Guitars are of great importance in Sands of Time, and the increased number of guitarists to three brings about a richer sound, a variety of contrasting textures and a more dynamic kind of energy in the arrangements. This method results in the album having a fuller sound without losing the organic features that set the band’s work apart. The blend of raw rock energy and well-developed melodies establishes a clear link between the directness of classic alternative rock and the more polished songwriting typical of British guitar music.
The fact that the album references groups such as The Beatles, Radiohead, Oasis, Supergrass and The Breeders shows that it can be situated within a wide-ranging alternative and indie rock tradition. This is an indication of a concern with memorable melodies, strong guitar sounds and the balance between musical tension and accessibility. Instead of sticking to one particular style, Sands of Time combines these features through a mix of rough guitar work, atmospheric sections and detailed arrangements, which gives the album a distinct character.
The fact that the album was produced in such a way as to give it an organic sound is underlined by the fact that it was recorded at the band’s own studio, mixed at the studio itself and mastered onto analogue tape by Christophe Chavanon at Studio Kerwax; this shows a direct and involved approach to the creation of the music. The live-to-tape performance given at Kerwax also illustrates the significance for Santa Claws of capturing the energy of a live performance. By combining the melodic qualities of Britpop with the edge of alternative rock and the warm tone of analogue recording, the album offers a clear statement of the band’s musical identity.
