The single itself explores the emotional state of insomnia, as the first few bars create a forward-moving motion with the clean guitar work, which matches the lyrical tension, allowing for space to breathe before bursting into the anthemic chorus. There’s a raw vulnerability throughout the chorus as it becomes more emotionally charged as the steady pulse transforms into a racing mind, as it's stated, “Deep that swallows me forever / and ever,” as the band explores insomnia without dramatising it, but still understanding and resonating with it.
What makes ‘Sandman’ compelling is its relatability to the audience, as everyone knows the frustration that the band is sharing, as the lyrics spiral into restlessness. The chorus paints the exhaustion and urgency perfectly into the song, but the figure gradually becomes less about a lack of sleep, and more of a symbol of escapism, “It’s where I run away / my lonely hiding place.” However, the escape is typically just out of reach, as the band sits with the vulnerability of insomnia and their problems, which elevates the track, with the restraint adding another layer of emotional depth to it.
As a whole, ‘Sandman’ suggests a band growing in confidence who are willing to explore vulnerability and a tender rawness throughout their songwriting while still providing anthemic and emotionally charged choruses. As a preview of their upcoming album, ‘Elsewhere, Always,’ it makes a powerful statement for the band, suggesting the album could be one of the most compelling albums of the year.
Eve Smith
Image: PRESS
If you enjoyed reading this article, please consider buying us a coffee. The money from this pot goes towards the ever-increasing yearly costs of running and hosting this site, and our “Writer Of The Month” cash prize.