ESP Institute Vinyl & CDs

Review: Raymond Richards emerges once again as a musical maestro in Sand Paintings, displaying his unparalleled mastery of the pedal steel. Teaming up with Calexico's John Convertino and an array of eclectic instrumentalists, Richards delves deeper into his contemplative sonic world. From the courageous chords of 'Badwater Basin' to the dramatic landscapes of 'Monument Valley' and 'Saguaro,' each track resonates with emotional depth and cultural richness. While the album expands into grand cinematic gestures, there's a stoic singularity pervading throughout - a lonesome cowboy facing the elements with unwavering resolve. Despite the visceral intensity, a cloaked vulnerability emerges, revealing a profound connection to the world. Sand Paintings is not merely an album; it's a journey through landscapes of sound and emotion, guided by Richards' transcendent vision and honesty.