What makes Grains of Sand by The Mission notable?

This album is significant for its exploration of darker themes within the gothic rock genre, cementing The Mission's status during a time when they were influential in shaping the sound of alternative rock. It features tracks that received considerable airplay and critical acclaim, particularly 'Butterfly on a Wheel,' which became one of their most recognized songs. By 1990, The Mission was transitioning from their initial surge in popularity with albums like 'God's Own Medicine' to refining their sound. 'Grains of Sand' marked their fifth studio album and showcased a more mature approach to songwriting, as the band navigated the evolving music landscape following their earlier successes.