The Sound by Knox Chandler (Blue Elastic)

Knox Chandler
The Sound
Blue Elastic

Swaths of sound transforming like air and landscapes flowing like passing moments of memories lost in space, this is Knox Chandler’s debut solo release sound stories and aural instrumental paintings built on perception.

Chandler’s career has spanned for over four decades where he is best known as a member of The Psychedelic Furs, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and the Cyndi Lauper band. He has also performed, recorded, arranged, and produced work for R.E.M., Depeche Mode, Grace Jones, Marianne Faithful, Natalie Merchant, Tricky and the list goes on.

Over the past decade, he resided in Berlin, letting the city seep into his psyche. Here he developed a technique called “Soundribbons,” which he used to write string arrangements, record, tour, and produce for an impressive list of bands. His work led him to become head of the guitar department at BIMM College.

But that’s what Knox has been influenced by all of his life. Being in the New York post punk and New Wave scene, he was exposed to so many different styles of music, you could not help but notice. The urban landscape shaped him, but three years ago, circumstances led him to New Haven, Connecticut and a more rural lifestyle.

That’s where The Sound comes in. It’s a mental documentation of spirit and place. The true beauty of this album is not the technique (although important), but the creativity. We are honored to be in the presence of Chandler’s perception. New scenery and natural dynamics can make nature feel extraterrestrial. I feel like we do not get a total abandonment of urbanization in his tones as it will always be part of his psyche. But for a moment, songs like “Mars on a Half Moon Rising” and “Branch” make us appreciate the world a little better. Sometimes, it will frighten us while other times, we are immersed in beauty, appealing to the mystery and seeking solace in the ambiance.

The Sound is exactly what you need to stop and refresh or reframe your way of thinking about everything around you no matter where you reside.