Sandrose
Sandrose
On their sole release (Polydor, 1972), French band Sandrose perform a superb mellow proto-progressive brand of rock based on the continuous floating sounds of the mellotron, incisive guitar interventions by Alarcen (whose sublime playing explodes during superbly constructed instrumental passages), and singer Rose Podwojnys powerful, clear voice. On songs like 'Vision' and 'Never Good at Saying Goodbye,' Podwojny's voice expresses such a maturity and sensitivity that simply listening to this song is enough to have goose-bumps and tears in your eyes. But it's the eleven minute instrumental 'Underground Session' that is the centerpiece of the album, with Alarcen giving free rein to his creativity. It's not just a highlight of the album, but one of the great instrumental rock tracks of all time. As for singing in English, Alarcen explained at the time: "The spirit of our music is closer to the Anglo-Saxon spirit, it is perfectly normal that we have the words in that language." An elegant 16-page booklet reproduces all original LP art. The liner-notes tell the band's history. There also are rare photos, discography, and translations of several contemporary articles. If you love groups like Earth & Fire, Julian's Treatment/Julian Jay Savarin, Goliath, or Analogy, (and who doesn't?), then Sandrose is an obvious choice for you.