Built on Sand
Saint Etienne · 1999
45 min · 14 tracks · indie pop · synth-pop
A kaleidoscopic blend of synth-pop and indie pop, brimming with nostalgic melodies and reflective lyrics.
Why this album works
The album received positive critical reception, with particular praise for its lyrical depth and sonic experimentation. It solidified Saint Etienne's status within the Britpop movement while also showcasing their influence on the evolving indie pop landscape of the late '90s.
- Best for
- nostalgic melodies for reflection steady pacing for focused listening short tracks that invite replay
- Context
- Released in January 1999, 'Built on Sand' is Saint Etienne's fourth studio album, following their acclaimed 'Good Humor' from 1998. At this point, the band was transitioning from their early sound defined by dance beats to a more introspective approach that incorporated elements of storytelling and atmospheric instrumentation.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Lykke Li· Ellie Goulding· Phoenix
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Clothes Show 0:23
- 2 Suburban Autumn Lieutenant 4:05
- 3 Jaydip Pharmacy 2:52
- 4 Tomorrow Never Dies Standout 3:48
- 5 Nazi Jaloux 3:20
- 6 Please 2:35
- 7 Keep Nothing Standout 4:00
- 8 Russian 3:27
- 9 Blofeld Buildings 4:38
- 10 Ken 3:40
- 11 Are We Gonna Be Alright Standout 3:13
- 12 Andrew McCarthy 2:55
- 13 We’re in the City (live) 4:21
- 14 The Clothes Show (Sad Refrain) 1:43
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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