Creatures of Habit

Creatures of Habit

     

From the opening notes of Peter Sando's album title track Creatures of Habit, we get the sense that we're in for something special. Sando is best known for his work with the seminal 60's band the Rahgoos, later re-named Gandalf for their debut album on Capitol Records in 1967. With the vocal sound of a journeyman folkie with a dark side, reminiscent of the great Tim Hardin, Sando brings us one of his true gems with his original song Creatures of Habit. The backing track is made up of ethereal synth orchestration, and jazz figures played on saxophone with simplicity and soul, as well as the addition of Mr. Sando's steel string acoustic guitar. I was happy that the orchestral choice was to go without rhythm section. This allows the track transparency and clarity while perfectly showcasing the vocal. One only has to wonder why this song has not been picked up for use in a film as it clearly has cinematic quality in it's orchestration. I suggest picking up the Gandalf album and giving a good listen to, Golden Earrings, Nature Boy and Can You Travel in the Dark Alone, to hear the so-called psychedelic side of this artist who has evolved into a truly great songwriter and singer. (Joe Delia January, 2011)