Thanks for the photos! If you want to play off the darker tones in the granite and contrast the lightness of the kitchen, below are some ideas. The issue with tile is that you really need to get samples and see how the light plays off of the granite and the samples. I agree with you that you shouldn't go busy with the backsplash, because it'll takeaway from the granite, but definitely don't be afraid of stepping outside the norm.

You could always opt for grey grout with white subway tiles, or do an interesting backsplash behind the stove to give it a more interesting look. Below are two kitchen projects of ours that might give you ideas.

Inman Park Bungalow · More Info

Old Meets New Build · More Info

sand is nice. gray could work if it was a different tone. that gray has too much purple in it. the white is too white/bright