  In this paper, we show that a simple generalization of the holographic axion
model can realize spontaneous breaking of translational symmetry by considering
a special gauge-axion higher derivative term. The finite real part and
imaginary part of the stress tensor imply that the dual boundary system is a
viscoelastic solid. By calculating quasi-normal modes and making a comparison
with predictions from the elasticity theory, we verify the existence of phonons
and pseudo-phonons, where the latter is realized by introducing a weak explicit
breaking of translational symmetry, in the transverse channel. Finally, we
discuss how the phonon dynamics affects the charge transport.
