Quicksand

Quicksand are an American post-hardcore band from New York, formed in 1990 out of the New York City hardcore scene of the late 1980s. The group’s line-up includes Walter Schreifels on vocals and guitar, Tom Capone on guitar, Sergio Vega on bass, Alan Cage on drums, and Charlie Garriga. Before forming Quicksand, Schreifels, Capone, Vega and Cage play in a number of local bands, including Youth of Today, Gorilla Biscuits, Bold and Beyond.

Early releases and first albums

The band issue a self-titled EP before signing to Polygram and releasing Slip in 1992. That album brings them airplay through the single “Dine Alone”. Their second album, Manic Compression, follows in 1995 after touring in support of the debut. Quicksand’s early work becomes influential within post-hardcore and alternative rock, although the band remains largely a cult act.

Break-ups, reunions and later records

Quicksand split in 1996, then reunite for a U.S. tour in 1997 before splitting again the following year. They regroup for a Revelation Records 25th anniversary show in 2012 and tour the United States again the next year after a long absence. Capone later leaves the band, and Quicksand continue as a three-piece. In 2017 they release their third album, Interiors, on Epitaph, followed by the EP Triptych Continuum in 2018 and the Will Yip-produced Distant Populations in 2021.

Associated acts and influence

Former members also appear in other groups, with Capone in Handsome and Schreifels in Rival Schools. Quicksand’s influence is later felt in bands such as Grade, Absolve, Thursday and At the Drive-In.