Members

Select a The Sound band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

About

The Sound was an influential post-punk band from South London, formed in 1979. The group was led by Adrian Borland (vocals, guitar), with Graham Bailey (bass), Michael Dudley (drums), and Colvin "Max" Mayers (keyboards) rounding out the lineup. Known for their evocative, emotionally charged sound, The Sound blended elements of new wave, post-punk, and alternative rock. Despite being contemporaries with bands like Joy Division and Echo & the Bunnymen, The Sound carved out a unique space with their introspective lyrics and atmospheric music, gaining a dedicated cult following particularly in Europe.

How to Sound Like The Sound

The Sound’s sonic palette is marked by rich, textured guitar tones and brooding, atmospheric layers. Adrian Borland’s use of guitars like the Fender Stratocaster and Gibson SG Standard contributed to the band's evocative sound, characterized by both melodic clarity and rhythmic intensity. Their music often featured a dark, immersive vibe, enhanced by lush synths like the Roland RS-09, which added an ethereal quality to their tracks. The interplay between Borland’s guitars and Mayers' keyboards created a dynamic, layered soundscape that was both melancholic and hypnotic, encapsulating the essence of the post-punk era.

Discography

Get the The Sound Sound

Want to sound like The Sound? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.

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