Quicksand: “Post-Grunge, Pre-Scene”

The Skinny: When Alexisonfire first released their album Watch Out! I read a review that said something about how they reminded the writer of an emotive hardcore (emo) band from the ’90s called Quicksand. Being a fan of Alexisonfire, at the time, and wanting to know more about where my comb-over hairstyle came from, I investigated and found a band that would quickly make it onto the list of my favourite bands. Quicksand was around before everyone decided to start singing through their nose and trying to sound like Tom Delonge. This is before the reverse mullet comb-over, before emo kids decided it would be “scene” to wear tight jeans, but tight guy jeans we’re few and far between so they decided to copy the New York Dolls and wear women’s jeans.

I highly suggest you check them out, especially if you dig early ’90s bands such as Orange 9mm and Helmet, though they aren’t very similar, I’m sure you’ll like it. It is extremely hard to come by a Quicksand CD and if you find one, it’ll probably cost you a pretty penny. A friend of mine actually ended up spending 40 dollars on Manic Compression only to lose it when moving. Their rare track entitled “Shovel” off one of their singles is definitely one of my favourites, that can be heard on their MySpace page.

The band went their separate ways in 1995 and has since formed new projects, including the band Handsome. They briefly reunited in 1997 and toured with the Deftones in 1998. They began working on a new album, however, tensions became too high and they split up for good. So if you can find those very rare gems titled Manic Compression and Slip pick them up. For now, enjoy the music video for “Fazer” off of their ’93 release, Slip.  [ END ]

Genres: Grunge, Post-Hardcore, Rock, Emo, Nu Metal