The Sandy Times

Vinyls And Stories Behind Them

Speaking with vinyl collectors who share the story behind the most meaningful record in their collection

by Barbara Yakimchuk

18 Jul 2025

Vinyl: Not Just an Accessory, But a Culture

The vinyl comeback: what is behind its mystery and revival — told through the personal story of Kito Jempere

by Barbara Yakimchuk

4 Jul 2025

5 Music Styles To Uncover This Summer

Balearic House, Downtempo, Ambient House, Reggae, Jazzy House — what are they and how do they sound? Let’s break it down.

by Barbara Yakimchuk

19 Jun 2025

HAMEX: From a Small Town In Iran To Millions Of Listeners Around the World

The story of Iranian pop star HAMEX: his childhood, music journey, unique style, and big plans

by Barbara Yakimchuk

31 May 2025

Can Music Really Make You More Productive?

Does music affect your focus — or fuel it? Let’s find out. Bonus: top playlists for work & workouts

by Barbara Yakimchuk

23 May 2025

Parties

Where To Party In Cairo? Here Is What Locals Say

Cairo’s creative pulse — here is where it beats loudest

by Alexandra Mansilla

18 May 2025

Technologies

What Makes Good Sound And What Does It Really Depend On? Let’s Dive In

The founder of Tonefarm, the first UAE-based sound system manufacturer, explains it

by Alexandra Mansilla

13 May 2025

8 Arabic Podcasts To Listen To: From Business To Psychology

Speak Arabic? Then these podcasts are a must — covering everything from comedy to tech and culture

by Barbara Yakimchuk

12 May 2025

Italo Sound Comes To Dubai. Interview With Otto Kraanen, Bordello A Parigi

Looks like the city is about to have one of its most unforgettable nights yet

by Alexandra Mansilla

4 May 2025

Sport

Boost Your Workout: Your Go-To Playlist For Running And Cycling

Running or cycling? Only with these tracks

by Barbara Yakimchuk

21 Apr 2025

Kurdish + Dutch = CHAMOS: The DJ Duo Blending Two Worlds Into One Sound

From Erbil to Amsterdam — both literally and musically

by Alexandra Mansilla

14 Apr 2025

Lifestyle

New On STR: Two Podcasts To Listen To This Month

STR has recently launched two new podcasts — what to expect and why they are worth listening to

by Barbara Yakimchuk

9 Apr 2025

Baloo: ‘I Can’t Wait To See Saudi Develop Its Own Signature Sound’

The Saudi scene has grown fast, but is there still something missing?

by Alexandra Mansilla

30 Mar 2025

The Sound Researcher: Meet Safeya Alblooshi, Sonic Ethnographer

Ever wondered what each Emirate sounds like? Find out in this piece

by Alexandra Mansilla

28 Mar 2025

Lana Lubany: From a Big Dream To 49 Million Streams

Diving into the story of rising star — Arabic singer and songwriter whose voice bridges the West and the Middle East

by Barbara Yakimchuk

28 Feb 2025

Fashion

Lifestyle

For Podcast Lovers: Fashion Shows Worth Listening To

From podcasts with celebrities "lying on the couch" to shows about sustainable fashion

by Alexandra Mansilla

13 Feb 2025

Events

Crowd Test Warm-Up: The Must-Listen Playlist Before the Party

The music selection of the DJs playing at Helipad — their top gems, perfect to play before the big night of dance

by Barbara Yakimchuk

13 Feb 2025

Parties

Art

KLO Kicks Off a New Party Trend In Dubai: The Afternoon Pop-Ups

Spontaneous Sunday parties in unexpected places — right in the middle of the day

by Alexandra Mansilla

10 Feb 2025

Redefining Electronic Music at IMS Dubai: Cosmicat – Saudi Arabia’s Rising Star

A story about the journey from dentistry to global stardom, with insights in the MENA region's evolving electronic music scene

by Sophie She

20 Jan 2025