QUICKSAND Releases Music Video For 'Crystallize' From Upcoming 'Bring On The Psychics' Album

Why It Matters

The album marks Quicksand’s first full‑length in five years, reaffirming their influence on modern post‑hardcore and signaling continued relevance for legacy acts on independent labels.

Key Takeaways

• Quicksand's new album drops July 17 via Equal Vision Records.
• "Crystallize" video directed by Jesse Korman showcases experimental sound.
• Album bridges 90s post‑hardcore roots with modern shoegaze influences.
• Produced in 10 days by Jon Markson, highlighting rapid creative process.
• Band cites Carl Sagan and Fugazi as artistic inspirations.

Pulse Analysis

Quicksand’s return with “Bring On The Psychics” underscores the enduring impact of early‑90s post‑hardcore on today’s alternative scene. Formed from the ashes of seminal NYC acts, the trio helped define a genre that blended raw aggression with groove‑driven dynamics. Their legacy is evident in newer bands that cite the “Slip” and “Manic Compression” eras as templates for intensity and melodic nuance. By partnering with Equal Vision Records, a label known for nurturing underground talent, Quicksand leverages an infrastructure that respects artistic freedom while providing robust distribution—a model increasingly favored by veteran artists seeking relevance without major‑label constraints.

The new record showcases a deliberate stylistic expansion. Produced in an intensive ten‑day session by Jon Markson, the album fuses the band’s signature crunch with atmospheric shoegaze textures, as heard on the “Crystallize” video directed by Jesse Korman. Lyrically, Walter Schreifels draws on Carl Sagan’s optimism and Fugazi’s DIY ethos, framing songs like “Get To It” and “Regenerate” as mantras against procrastination and stagnation. Musically, the inclusion of a breezy ballad such as “Days You Run To” reveals a willingness to explore softer dynamics, broadening the group’s appeal beyond hardcore purists while retaining the technical virtuosity that long‑time fans expect.

From a market perspective, the album’s rollout illustrates how legacy acts can generate buzz through staggered content releases—multiple videos, press statements, and strategic touring announcements. The partnership with an independent label reduces overhead and aligns with the current trend of artists prioritizing creative control over mass‑market exposure. For the broader industry, Quicksand’s successful navigation of nostalgia and innovation offers a blueprint for other veteran groups aiming to re‑engage audiences in a streaming‑driven landscape, where authentic storytelling and concise visual assets remain key drivers of fan engagement.