Reviews (page 3 of 7)
4/5
Wasn't expecting this to be that good
Very fun album, and nice to hear Björk's early work.
Seriously good stuff from a band that was never really intended to be taken seriously. Full of quirky ideas, great rock movement, top notch song writing, utterly positive and partly humorous. This is what propelled Björk to the front. It's ecstatic yet calculated - simply fun to listen. Not the greatest record ever, but still a worthy addition to the list.
dit viel zeer goed mee... gelukkig dat Bjork niet in elk nummer zingt... in het midden vond ik het wat zwak, maar begin en einde waren zeer goed...
103/1089 - My first Björk album so far. Pretty good but very washy textures throughout. Would have appreciated more drier staccatto sounds at points.
I quite enjoyed this, especially the Bjork lead tracks
really happy to have an excuse to listen to this bjork is so cool
I honestly haven’t actually listened to any of Bjork’s work, so I had no idea what to expect from this, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! Favourite tracks: Birthday, Delicious Demon, Mama, Blue Eyed Pop, Sick for Toys. F***king in Rhythm & Sorrow, Dragon
This was great. It was a fresh and unique listening experience. It's a great introduction to Bjork and I really enjoyed it.
Good one
Very good. Björk is awesome to listen to. A couple of duds on the album but for the most part I enjoyed every song.
Bjork, always cool.
I wasn’t sure what to expect here and wasn’t all that excited, as there have been a few obscure albums from the 80’s on this list that I couldn’t get into. A couple of songs in I kept thinking “I swear I know this voice,” look it up and lo and behold, it’s Björk! Then Birthday came on, and that’s when I realized why this album is on the list. What a performance she laid down on that track - it’s truly an incredible and evocative vocal spectacle. Björk is the standout talent on the record, but it sounds great and is interesting from beginning to end.
I've often wondered what became of Einar, the spoken word guy the Sugarcubes - he didn't stand a chance once Björk warped the timeline. He served on the Reykjavik city council for a while, so that's good. This was a meteor killing off the dinosaurs at the time, but I hear a lot of Oingo Boingo, Go-Go's, 4AD roster, etc in it now. It has a sweet menace to it, feeling like it was inaccurately translated at some border checkpoint and made all the better for it.
We all know Birthday. Essentially Bjork's debut to the world. Has there ever been a debut song that has topped that? I don't think so. The 'Bjork growl' is uniquely Bjork. And the opening riff on the song is just [chef's kiss]. Perhaps the downside of the ubiquitousness of that song is that the album as a whole has been overlooked by many (though by no means everyone, given this is the album that put Iceland on the music map). Also, I never noticed the genitalia on the cover before. Heh. Cute.
Growing up in Iceland, this album wasn’t ‘alternative’ it was just what the radio played between sheep forecasts and volcano updates.
How did I not know that Bjork was in a band? Absolutely brilliant album.
Probably the first time I’ve ever listened to a full album by the band and I quite enjoyed their quirky take on Indie Pop. Something I’m may well revisit
8.5/10
Really enjoyed this
I remember once someone describing this album as electrifying and sort of the kind of thing to lift you right up and I think in this third time I listen to it it's ringing true because I'm feeling pretty bleh right now over personal stuff and just... this album's joyful zaniness is simply infectious, it's hard not to hear Bjork do her Bjork thing over some cool post-punk thing and simply staying in a downer mood, even if it's not the most consistent album in the world is one hell of a fun time so what a better time to listen to it.
good album, was fun to listen to
Wow. Bjork but good. Huh.
I always forget the Björk had a career before the solo stuff. Good record.
Björk!!
Pretty rad little record. Björk is fantastic and the second vocalist is a great contrast to her as well. Love the strange subject matter and variation in sound throughout. 8/10
Imagine listening to this for the first time in 1988, completely oblivious to the concept of Björk, and then you get hit by the primal vocal sounds on 'Birthday'. Eye-opening and frightening I bet. Life's Too Good is a fun record that is equal parts tribute to and parody of several prominent 80s post punk bands. 'Deus' in particular navigates this duality perfectly. Einar Örn Benediktsson has an interesting pronounciation, but let's be honest, most of the time you are just waiting for him to shut up and hand the mic over to Björk.
Entirely enjoyable.
4.5
I enjoyed this album more than I enjoy most Bjork solo albums. A lot of very cool tracks and definitely a lot of weirdness - in fact, there were times I described it as "Bizarro World B-52s" (e.g., Delicious Demon, Blue Eyed Pop, Sick for Toys). Considering that the B-52s have their own share of weirdness, that's saying something. Favorite tracks: Motorcrash, Delicious Demon, Mama (occasionally weird lyrics, but cool music), Coldsweat (very cool heavy groove), Blue Eyed Pop, Deus, F'ing in Rhythm & Sorrow (funny rockabilly song). Let's also be sure to give props to Bjork's range - from sweet to growl and back again in the same line. A very unique band and I would definitely revisit.
4.5
I was aware of the Sugarcubes, but thought of them as just a footnote in Bjork’s career. Turns out I was wrong - I really enjoyed this.
Classic intro to Bjork.
I've never listened to this album, only the song 'Birthday'. But it's great! I've been missing out. Of course Bjork's voice is exceptional and makes anything sound ethereal and haunting. The album's got a post Punk vibe but somehow is it's own thing completely. Perhaps it's the vocals which give it that edge? It seems somewhat different from a standard post punk/new wave album. The second half sounds kinda b52s, never a bad thing. Definitely will go back to this album.
One foot in the 80’s and one foot in the 90’s. Outrageous and mesmerizing
Album 698 of 1001 The Sugarcubes - Life's Too Good (1988) Rating : 3.5 / 5 Fun debut album with Björk on vocals. Nice blend of post-punk, alternative rock, and new wave influences. It has been described as "strange but accessible, silly but genius, and ultimately unfailing from start to finish" and I'm in agreement.
Fun alternative rock!
Pretty good.
Unexpectedly enjoyable. Peppy-depressing-rock-punk hyphenate. Bjork’s vocals are ethereal and raging in turns. Birthday is a highlight
I never would have thought that I would like a record where Björk participated a lot. But now I do. Very cool debut!
Listening to the album: wow this vocalist sounds so much like Björk it’s actually crazy Looking up the band later: oh so it WAS Björk well I guess that shouldn’t be shocking
Efter mängder av plattor med Björk så kommer till slut Sugarcubes. Börjar tro att författaren vill ligga med Björk och kanske till och med få några kottar med henne. Det här är trots allt en ganska bra platta.
weird but in a good way the album has a certain dreamlike quality to it like a fever dream - which i greatly enjoy. i think the female vocalist has a great sounding voice, sounding like she has a lot of fun in what she's doing. very energetic, infectious. and the guy screaming things that seem kind of random just totally fits into the whole image
Bjork wailing a lot but pretty cool unorthodox rock music
Motocrash and Birthday were in rotation during my college years, but I haven’t listen to this one in ages. This is still a solid release.
An apology, a congratulations and a thank you. The apology: Sorry Bjork for never taking you seriously back in the day. The congratulations: Well done Bjork for ditching the band as soon as the 3 album deal was done. The male vocalist was crap, and you totally outshone him on this. The songs were great though, very cool and funky. The standout track is Coldsweat, and not just because the geezer didn’t sing. Birthday also gave me Robert Smith vibes. The thank you: Cheers to the 1,001 list for helping me realise just how great Bjork is. As I said, I dismissed her at the time as was just too weird. Maybe now I’m able to embrace my own inner weird. Her voice is just an incredible instrument, and on the right song is just breathtaking. The solo Bjork stuff and now this one that have cropped up on the list has allowed me to discover what i stupidly dismissed.
7/10 A less artsy, more melodic Bjork? Who knew?
sassy!
Weird, but really interesting. Worth another listen.
In the tender tapestry of existence, Mentalist Moomin blooms as Björk, a shimmering soul, weaving colours into the fabric of the mundane world, where joy would dwindle like a fading star without her ethereal light. The sugar cubes, those delightful morsels of sound, weaving magic in my heart's tapestry! In the kaleidoscope of my late 80s youth, they were the whimsical whispers that danced through my Walkman’s dreams. In my shimmering sanctuary, a bare spirit descends from the celestial zenith, and like sweet whispers, we feast on the luscious ruby delights of strawberry cake. In my glistening cocoon, a bare essence cascades from the starlit peak, and like tender murmurs, we savour the succulent crimson treasures of strawberry dreams.
This was really good! Loved it. Super creative. Total bangers. Good old Bjork
I really liked this. Was interesting to her Bjork in not full Bjork mode and get her vocals with a differing genre.
yes
Really interesting, should come back to this, BJORK
4+/5
Weird but I enjoyed it.
I think it’s really interesting, it has very whispy vibes. My favorite song was probably ‘Deus’ or ‘Blue Eyed Pop’.
7/10
I'd never heard of The Sugarcubes before, but I was pleasantly surprised. Also interesting to find out Bjork was in the band. Standout track on first listen was: - Delicious Demon
Bjork fronting a punky rock band is cool. Does this list have too much Bjork though? Maybe. It's getting a 4 in any case.
Love The Sugarcubes. An extra star automatically for being from a mysterious land of lava, ice and rocket strength coffee. Take the mid-80s post-punk indie movement, add some remote barren rock vibes and sprinkle with the elfin delight of Bjork's vocals. Only came to them "later", but what a great album. Maybe not quite the full 5, but will happily listen to again
Wildness of spirit Pairs well with fluidity As boundless pop rock
Post punk bjork. Awesome
It was pretty good, I liked the first half more. It reminds me of Oh-OK. Had no idea Bjork was in a band first, very cool Rating: 4.1
It seems like the list will always follow one Bjork with another in quick succession. This is also very good, and fun to revisit. But list, we can use a Bjork bjreak.
I think that’s a project wrap on Bjork already. One thing I learned: I really like Bjork. Here’s to never listening to her again.
I really liked this! That being said, I don't think it would have sounded special if it wasn't for Bjork's presence. Her voice elevates this from standard jangly indie rock to something totally different.
Early Bjork is great. Nice to hear the roots before her solo career.
I really like Bjork here's her solo work.
I never knew how lovely and interestingly post-punk the Sugarcubes actually were. I enjoyed this!
Knowing Motorcrash and Birthday and other Sugarcubes hirs very well, I had never really listened to this album in full before. It was fantastic. Full of vibrant life and fresh and unique. Very very close to a 5
Very fun album. I may prefer it to Bjork's solo stuff -- this is more structured (which can be good and bad, but mostly good.)
Suuper weird. Overall I found this good but not great. Some of the weirdness didn't coalesce into something I could enjoy. But some of it did! So going for a 4 star.
Who doesn't love Björk?
It's frequently outlandish and ridiculous in a good way, and hearing bjork start her music career off so strong is great.
Lovely stuff! 3.8
OK, hear me out...I just listened to this in the bath, straight after listening to Abbey Road, and I could distinctly hear John Lennon singing Björk's parts and Paul McCartney singing Einar. Anyway, I liked this.
Surprised with how good it was. Normally wouldn’t be my cup of tea but turned out good.
Really enjoyed this. Forgot how much I love Birthday.
As I listened to this I thought, "this sounds like a pop-y Bjork" only to read that this IS a pop-y Bjork album. I have always loved her voice, this is no exception, but I enjoy hearing it set to music that is less experimental and dramatic.
This was a lot of fun. Maybe I need to check out more of the Sugarcubes and Björk
Some really influential stuff. Basically the birth of Björk. Birthday is an iconic song! I still haven't gotten used to Einar's vocals, but I love some of this stuff. The bass tone, Björk's vocals. I remember my dad playing their remix album It's-It a lot and I thought the lyrics to Birthday were so weird. But obviously she arew on me.
This day's album was a very pleasant surprise. I was listening to the album and quickly realized that Bjork was the singer. Now, I literally use Bjork as my measurement for whether an album deserves 1 star or not. If they're better than Bjork, they get 2 stars. But in this album, she is reigned in by the music of the band. Bjork can sing, and has a very unique voice and makes interesting choices, and with more straight forward music in the background, those choice really shine. It's not exactly the most profound amazing music, probably really just a 3.5, but because it made me like Bjork and even consider giving her another chance, I'm going to give it a 4.
Always knew what she did before her solo releases, but never had a chance to hear it. And this is really-really solid
I distinctly remember falling in love with Coldsweat from my early days of watching 120 Minutes on MTV but for some reason that never inspired me to buy and listen to the whole album. Blame my discovery of hardcore and my narrowing of tastes at that age I guess. Really nice post-punk here with an almost futuristic (for the time) approach to new wave. Björk's voice is as outstanding as it is unique here and it's no surprise that in a few years she will be propelled into being a successful solo artist.
3.5 rounded up they invented a whole new genre with this shit tbh…… Quirked Up highlights: delicious demon, deus, cowboy (aug 13 2024)
I had this back in the day but didn’t remember anything about it except that ‘Birthday’ is an all time classic. This is quirky and fun and interesting and grew on me after several listens. I see the B52s/Talking Heads comparisons and that is not a bad thing
Weirdly enjoyed this considering I’m personally not a big fan of Bjorks solo work. Fun time
I was not expecting to like this as much as I did. This is easily some of Bjork's best work. If the male vocalist was silenced, this might have even been better.
After 3 listens, the album has grown on me. Bjork’s singing mixed with punk like song constructs connected. 4/5!
Really weird to hear Bjork with more people. The guy singer sorta reminded me of B-52s. I liked this though. A few of the songs were strange in a good way. One of them made me think of The Slits. 4/5
As much as I love Björk, I haven’t listened to her band before. Glad I did, this is pretty neat. B
Interesting 80’s sound. British. Reminded me of tears for fears
Still find Bjork’s voice odd but generally loved it
Props to Bjork for making an album I like.
Entertaining. Bjork became a massive star, the glimmer of that was present here
Ah, takes me back to 6th form college and Birthday coming out and sounding like nothing else and then this album with its post punk energy. It's a great album, though I think their third is better.
4 stars for young Björk
I know this album quite well. After falling in love with Bjork after her first solo album, I learned that she had a previous band called The Sugarcubes. I was unable to find anything from them at first, until one fateful day I found a copy in a bargain bin. Fun album. Bjork's solo work is much better, but there's elements in what was to become from her in this album.
oh! its bjork's baby band! cute! Very Poppy. Easy 4.
This album is a great time, but the non Bjork singing is ridiculous. This is kind of line a slightly dancier Siouxie and the Banshees.
This was a fantastic journey start to finish. I worried it would be another standard brit-pop album, it’s Icelandic, but this album is fantastic. It doesn’t necessarily sound groundbreaking, but there’s something here that is undeniably fresh and infectiously fun. Björk, perhaps? I’ll have to go with that, though I’ve never enjoyed any of her solo albums. Well done Ice People. 4/5
This was excellent and might have even been a five star album if it wasn't for the annoying male vocalist.
Honestly, some really good post-punk hailing from Iceland. The production jumps between gloomy early Cure-esque moments like on 'Birthday', and upbeat funky like on 'Fucking in Rhythm and Sorrow'. I love the groove on 'Blue Eyed Pop', peak post-punk stuff. I have no idea how to feel about the Einar interjections, Bjork is such an all-encompassing, talented, and likable vocalist that she sort of overshadows him (aside from a song like 'Sick for Toys' where I think he does a good enough job). Bjork is what makes this album incredible for me. Not to discredit the rest of the band, but I can't overstate how incredible Bjork's melodies, growls, and dynamics are all over this album, especially on songs like 'Motorcrash' and 'Delicious Demon'. Her lyrics are subtly eerie on a majority of these songs as well - especially with the gruesome and almost gorey sexual depictions on 'Coldsweat'. Bjork or not though, this album would've still stood out as an incredible gothic encapsulation of post-punk ethos as it was on its first-wave deathbed.
My first CD!
Really good. My first real exposure to Björk. Björk is really obviously the star of this band.
Was a lot of fun to listen to Bjork's band, which I honestly have not ever given much time to. It kicked off the Sunday morning of Otakon 2024 for me
Interesting... Didn't know Bjork had a career before her solo one. I think I like it more, since it is more accessible.
Couple songs in and I was quite enjoying it, very intriguing. Then I recognised it was Bjorks voice and it clicked why the band's name sounded familiar. Not as good as her solo stuff but still good, especially the first half. Petered out towards the end, and the songs with the male vocals were noticeably worse. Interesting to hear more of her pre-solo days. 3.5*
Björk.
I went to Iceland many years ago, partially in hopes of seeing the northern lights. On the night they were supposed to be brilliant ... it snowed. I just walked around Reykjavik and bought local music in a store. Sometimes the universe steers you in the right direction. Man this is a fun album. Music is all over the place while still being a good trip - vocals are more than a little out there with Bjork and that other guy (who is not unlike an Icelandic Fred Schneider, but thankfully more reigned in) but that's actually a selling point for this band. The lyrics are.... wild ("Deus" in particular). And there's absolutely something about them being sung (or spoken) with such heavy accents that gives it extra intrigue - something it would absolutely not have if this band were from, say, Indiana. No offence, Terre Haute. It'll never escape being so very 1988 but in this case I love it - the sound/mix and music are perfectly enmeshed. 8/10 4 stars
This is cool! Some strange lyrics, but overall I enjoyed the vibe. Super funny that I got this on my birthday and there is a song called Birthday 🥳
When the Sugarcubes appeared, out of nowhere, on the music scene int he late 80s, no one knew what to make of them. They were quirky to the point of weird and came from Iceland. Bands from Iceland were hardly ever scene. Bjork especially was this space pixie that seemed to have dropped out of the sky. There first album, Life's Too Good, mirrored the band in music. Full of off-tempo songs with odd lyrics, and weird singing, they were nothing like the emerging alternative scene or previous new wave. Instead, they were fresh, interesting, and attention getting. Birthday, is full of strnage vocal tics, motorcrash has a great driving beat but the lyrics hardly make sense. Delicious Demon is... I don't know what it is. It's just out there. I had the oppurtunty to see them live with PiL and New Order. Live they were even stranger and hyperactive. In other words, an excellent show. The Sugarcubes didn't last very long. They only had one more album but the novelty had worn off as the alt music scene got weirder in it's own right. Bjork left to basically invent Euro Dance Pop. For a moment though, in 1988, weird was good, and the Sugarcubesw awesome.
Enjoyed this far more than I thought I would, very interesting. I can enjoy Bjork in this context
Bjork will go on to do much more interesting things. This is still pretty solid though.
þrælfínt, markað tímabilinu. 4.
Un album très intéressant et assez unique. Ça fait drôle d'entendre la voix de Bjork dans un contexte de groupe post-punk comme celui-ci. Certaines pièces m'ont un peu laissé indifférent, mais globalement c'était vraiment un album amusant. 8/10
I only knew them by name. Better than I expected. Everything pop and alternative of the mid to late 80s in a blender probably gets you something like this, but not quite. It's better than that. Except the lyrics, but it's not their language, so you can't really blame them. Favorite song: sick for toys.
Really enjoyed it, Björk is always a good time.
Bjorn has a beautiful voice. This was my first time experiencing her and this genre. Big fan!
I have not explored The Sugarcubes at all and am only aware of them for being the band Björk was in. I don't know what I was expecting, but I liked this a lot. Great fun little post-punk record.
Why does knowing that this group is Icelandic make me more amenable to liking them than if I heard the same music coming from an American or British band? I had never heard of The Sugar Cubes and I had heard of Bjork but was unfamiliar with her work. This album surprised me and I liked it much more than I thought I would. It often reminded me of the B-52s but with more grit and gravity. I'd welcome listening to this one again.
Super cool, Björk!
So weird and fun. Björk singing her heart out with every kind of music fused into one
When this came out it was unlike anything I'd heard before. I was lucky enough to see them live in 1989 and they didn't disappoint. I like this much better than Bjork's solo stuff.
I would have given this a 5 if it wasnt for Einars stupid "singing"
3.5/5
Very enjoyable and quirky throughout. Bjork has one of the most distinct voices in music and it's really cool to see the origins of what would become one of the most creative and unique artists ever.
Ganske chill
A surprising gem, even if it was meant as a joke. Made Bjork make sense. Might give her a listen with new ears now.
Rating: 8.5/10 Great album overall. So many catchy melodies while also being very creative. The instrumentation sounds like post-punk from the early 80s with its unique twist to it. The production is great and Bjork's voice matches this sound so well which adds to the uniqueness. Very refreshing to get an album like this on the list, it does not always work but when it does it is very memorable. Favorite songs: Traitor, Motorcrash, Birthday, Mama, Coldsweat, Blue Eyed Pop, Deus, Sick For Toys, Fucking in Rhythm & Sorrow. Worst song: Taking Some Petrol.
I love everything about this band. Sort of a weird B-52s vibe but a little... nastier? Funny, interesting, different, upbeat, fun, contemplative, cerebral, poetic, odd, indecipherable, fascinating, Arty, percussive - has a good beat, you can dance to it. High quality musicianship, you can tell they've played together for a long time, very cohesive and tight, expressive, good dynamics and support for the voices. This is a good band. Oh, yeah, also Björk 🤩 (pronounced "byerk").
interesting Icelandic alternate music
Stronger first half than second, but I’m learning I love Bjork and that makes up for it
I much prefer Björk in this environment. It’d be the full four stars if the male singer wasn’t there. 3.5/5
Maybe a 3, but felt like I had to pick a side on this divisive album. Started out making confused and being a little put off by it; but when I stopped thinking of it as a Bjork album, and instead started thinking of it as a weird Icelandic punk album from before Iceland was cool, my opinion 180-ed on it.
Quirky is, I think, the word for them. Bjork’s squeaky vocals, bounced back and forth with the male lead’s own odd inflections, but it works and the songs are interesting. Holds up surprisingly well.
good start
I liked a lot of this. Could do without the Icelandic songs.
This album (and band) takes on a different context with Björk’s solo career in mind, but even on it’s own it’s a good album! Björk’s performance is great as you’d expect, and the rest of the band is similarly solid. Good stuff
Så nice
Bjork!!!! Gotta love an album that directly speaks to the part of me that had Aqua's Aquarium as the first album I ever owned, or the part of me that loves The B52's Love Shack. It's super weird but super cool. I was never into Bjork's solo material, but apparently I really enjoy her work with The Sugarcubes. Standouts are Cold Sweat, Birthday, Deus, Blue Eyed Pop, and F***ing in in Rhythm and Sorrow.
This is a really good album, man. I kind of want to give it 4 stars, but I’m not entirely sure I can because it does sound a bit dated. But it’s a hell of a fun ride and Bjork is incredible as always. You know what, I’m just gonna do it. I’d probably give it a 3.5 if I could do half stars, but this album is so much better than many others that I’ve given 3 stars to. Maybe not as good a those I’ve given 4 stars to, but the gap is much smaller.
This was a gem. 3.5/5, maybe a 4/5 after another listen.
I've never been a big punk/new wave fan, but I night be a Bjork fan. She's a phenomenal vocalist, and even if I didn't like every track on the album, I absolutely feel the energy and talent she brings. Excited to hear more if her solo career. Top tracks: Birthday, Delicious Demon, Deus
"Life's Too Good" is the debut studio album by Icelandic alternative rock band the Sugarcubes. The music is post-punk...not much more to say there. The album title was a humorous take on pop music's optimism. The album was an unexpected success and garnered them international attention. The Sugarcubes are Björk Guðmundsdóttir (vocals, keyboards), Einar Örn Benediktsson (vocals, trumpet), Bragi Ólafsson (bass), Þór Eldon (guitar) and Sigtryggur Baldursson (drums). The album hit #1 in the UK and #54 in the US. The second song and last single "Motorcrash" has fast drums and an angular very post-punk guitar which keeps up the pace. Björk's vocals are layered as she describes a girl who goes to motorcrashes. We get a hint at the strength of her voice. Einar throws in trumpet parts and says Einar things in the background vocals. "Birthday" was the song that broke them into the mainstream and now Björk starts to really let her vocals loose. Bass, a crawling guitar, more trumpet. Björk said the song was about a tasteless love affair drawing memories from her as a 5-year old. My favorite Sugarcubes' song is "Delicious Demon." Here, Björk's vocals explode and you realize, yeah, she'll be going places. The most effective use of Einar's vocals combined with Björk's. The band really goes goth in "Coldsweat." Heavy drums and bass. The scratching guitar fits perfectly. "Deus" was the third single maybe the most poppy and bouncey song on the album. A good drum beat and guitar. A keyboard melody. I don't think she believes in God. I remember getting this album when it came out and liking it some extent; I really liked it today...it's aged pretty well. The music is absolutely post punk and even goth. There's a dark edge to the music and the lyrics that I don't remember picking up in 1988. It sounds more like an early 80's album which makes sense since the band had these sings around for some time before the album was released. And what can you say about Björk? This album is worth listening to just for her vocals. I can't think of many singers where a voice is just much bigger than the music. And hers is.
The exhilarating chaos of the debut album of The Sugarcubes (and, dare I say, the true debut of Björk) remains as vital and exciting as it did when it came out in 1988. Its playful nature, all the way down to the album cover, (regardless of whether it is set aside or not) would ultimately become central to the solo career that the band spawned; the long-lasting influence subtle yet apparent as it ended up putting Iceland on the musical map. Life's Too Good? Well, when it comes to The Sugarcubes, may it be. Favorites: Traitor, Motorcrash, Birthday, Delicious Demon, Mama, Blue Eyed Pop, Sick for Toys.
So great! I didn’t know Bjork was in this band and hearing her vocals in the background of track one perked me right up. Superb singing and instruments were consistently “off” in such a delightful way. Dug it!
Slightly off kilter pop that somehow feels a bit metal. It was fun!
I would like this to fall into my 5 star category: An album I had genuine fun with, no if/buts, or that I fully enjoyed discovering for the first time, but there's a bit of a chipper extrovert madness in the music here (not necessarily via Björk) that I found tiring after a while, somehow, right now, today. Shame. It's good, though!
Hey! This is another discovery! Obviously had heard of The Sugarcubes, but I guess I expected their music to be a little more jagged, and Bjork's vocals to be a little more turbulent, but it really wasn't. It was far more hooky than I expected. It's like they took the best elements from so many new wave/80s alternative sounds and melded them beautifully. There's some B-52s, and some Siouxsie & the Banshees, some INXS, some XTC, some Cure... Not saying they're derivative at all, but just trying to say they've built their sound in ways that I enjoy. Really dug the rhythm section across this album. Thought for a while this might be a 5, but I reserve those for *perfect* albums so ended on a 4, but this was a really great surprise! (We really need to be able to add .5 on these ratings because this is likely a 4.5.)
first listen. i had no idea Bjork used to be in a band but i really liked this album. i will be most definitely revisiting it.
This is an album made for my taste. I love punk/riot-girls sounds, and punk music is always a good option for the day. That being said, this album is a bit common sense for me, with energy but without novelty, even being from 1988, so it deserves just 3 stars. I'll finish with 4 because of my curiosity about being the first Bjork band.
Icelandic Deep Blue something but even weirder.
Yeah enjoyed this, I hadn't realised how much id missed Bjorks crazy singing. Nice sounds nice vocals.
Loved this when it was released, still do. Still bonkers fun throughout.
First listened to this last year, thought it was great fun. I've grown quite fond of Einar's dry witted vocals.
I liked it a lot and not just because of the unmistakable vocals from Björk - the music, (Post-Punk according to Wikipedia), was quirky, but not enough to put me off. My favourite track was "Delicious Demon".
Gang of Four singed by Björk, niiiiice.
Actually enjoyed it! Something about listening to Bjørk seemed pretentious to me so I haven't , but it was more or less enjoyable. Punky drums.
8.5/10 Highlights: Traitor Deus Birthday Motorcrass Momo
Grupo de Björk. Está bien. Un 4.
Björk.
Fun album!
Life's Too Good and so is this album It's such a nice listen. I first listening to this album 2 years ago, and i enjoyed it, but never really went back and listened to it again, I'm not sure why. Since then I heard Vespertine for the first time, and it blew my socks off completely and became my 'go-to' recommendation. Bjork is incredible. Her melodic ideas she incorporates in songs just seems to be in a different dimension that a lot of singers. Her voice is an instrument. Its so good to hear her on an album like this, doing completely different things to what she does on Vespertine. The album itself is just over 33 mins, its short and punchy, at no point does it every over stay its welcome, only one song is longer than 4 minutes. I really like the sound of the guitars on the record. Really really like the production of the songs. Traitor is a great opener, a really good statement song to start the record off, great riff, fantastic vocals, and a nice spoken word bit. Echos of really early 80s alternative music. Birthday an obvious stand out, great song Delicious Demon is a great little pop rock song. There's almost a Smiths-esque rhythm to Motorcrash, as well as some great brass.
I've heard some Sugarcubes songs before and gone through the entire Bjork discography, but I've never listened to a full Sugarcubes album. To me, at this point in time, "Life's Too Good" sounds like an Icelandic B52's - a quirky new wave outfit. I like the album, though it is not one I'm going to go back to regularly. There is a lot of great music behind the vocals which obviously take center stage.
Thoughts before listening: This is Bjork's band before she went solo. Poppy Icelandic indie rock with Bjork singing overtop...this should be interesting. Review: I've always loved Bjork's voice but rarely love her music...it's too weird and out there for me I guess. This however is much more up my alley with it's late 80s/early 90s indie rock sound. With the male and female vocals I'm getting kind of a post-punk X vibe. I'm really enjoying this and will be adding a few songs to the playlist. 4-stars.
This was a nice surprise. I didn't knew about Bjorks history since I'm not a big fan of her, but in this constellation I quite liked it. The Smith meets B52s meets Bjork :D
When I was 11, iTunes used to have these albums called “iTunes Originals” where artists would play a live set of music in the iTunes studio and offer some commentary on songs. At least, I think that’s how it worked. In any case, I remember browsing through the library and I was both frightened and mesmerized by the image for Bjork’s iTunes Originals photo. I pressed play and heard her whisper-speak in an ethereal voice “iTunes Originals,” and I got scared. Ever since then, that has been my association with Bjork. But today, I got “Life’s Too Good” by The Sugarcubes, and found myself enjoying it. Seemed like some sort of cross between the B-52s and The Cranberries, with a pinch of eeriness mixed in. I went to look up more information about the album, and find out that the woman I’ve been listening to all this time was Bjork! Color me surprised! (And then not surprised, as I thought more about it.) I liked it, but I don’t know if I agree with contemporary opinions that it was groundbreaking or stretching the boundaries of what rock could be. 1988 doesn’t seem early enough for this particular sound to be groundbreaking. Nonetheless, an interesting album with a unique sound and perspective that introduced the world to the most widely known Icelandic artist. That’s certainly worth something.
- birthday rocks - sick for toys does not
Really cool and so many influences. I hear the B-52's, Bjiork, Over The Rhine, The Pixies, swing, rock, and indie. Probably a bunch more but clearly unique and authentic.
Interesting and different. There are parts that I have enjoyed quite a bit and a few that I've listened to for a bit and then skip them. I'm not exactly in my wheelhouse, but I've listened to them again
This is good! This is Bjork?!
Good. I thought they were a Cranberries knock-off, but this album preceded Cranberries...
It's a great album. Pre Bjork Bjork. I always liked Birthday, but there's actually a lot more on this that is really enjoyable and odd.
Bjork is the Greatest!!!!
A little weird, even for me, (that’s Björk for you), but well executed for what it is.
Very different sound. Must be the Icelandic touch. Motorcrash was a good showcase for the album. Unmistakably, there's Bjorks voice as the lead. Mama was a really good track. Also Deus and Sick for Toys A good 4
Ahh Björk before she became the Björk. A fun listen.
A fun album. Bjork before she became too self-serious. (Or maybe Bjork’s seriousness counterbalanced by Einar’s goofiness.)
A powerful, fun little album but I found the female singer a bit too annoying on some of the tracks. It felt like the band relied too much on her even though they had great musical ideas of their own.
Björk singing in key?? Okay nice. There’s a naked person in my flat?
I always overlooked this album, without realising how Bjorky it actually is. She's of course her earlier, kookier, excited self which is refreshing after her more recent, joyless heavy eco stuff. There are plenty of those weird little Bjork growls here. By the way, if you haven't seen her exploring the inside of a TV on YouTube, search for it now, it's the best thing on the internet.
I did not realize this was Bjork's beginnings. The pop bombast was a fresh breath of air from the stale rock elements present across many of these American albums.
Muito doido ouvir a Bjork novinha assim
This was a fun album!
Was er bekend mee, uiteraard bjork, en vind dit een stuk fijner dat haar solo werk. Paar nummers sprongen er echt uit
Hyvä platta ja hyllyssä vinskana! Björk alkaa kuulostaa tällä levyllä jo aika paljon siltä mitä soololla on myöhemmin tulema. Rokimpaa toki. 4/5
Björk on kyllä ihan huikea jo tässä. Muutenkin todella jees rockia. Vahva nelonen.
Raikas levy, joka varmasti ansaitsi aikanaan haippinsa. (toki listalle tyyppilliseen tapaan haipin piti olla briteissä :) ) Björkillä on kyllä hieno ääni. 4/5
bjork
lovely and weird
its quite wierd but also nice
Björk.
Amazing female vocals, but the male singer can't keep up at all and ruins it. Very interesting style of music, I liked it a lot apart from the male singer (please shut up). Stand-out: Cold Sweat
Pretty interesting alt rock album. Bjork’s band before her solo career, my first time listening to her. Good instrumentals, interesting singing but mostly nothing lyrics. Favorite track: Blue Eyed Pop
I like every song on here except the ones where Bjork sings lead.
Seemingly an unexpected hit, particularly with the British music press, and the record that brought both the Icelandic music scene and Björk to international attention. None of that is surprising, as it's a fun, artistically interesting and catchy record, and a reminder that beneath all the layers of creativity, Björk is an unbelievably talented singer with an incredible and unique voice. Rating: 3.5/5 Playlist track: Deus Date listened: 28/10/23
Kind of a banger, it’s about nothing but good vocals and production.
This one snuck up on me. How is Bjork so freaking cool? Channelling Blondie and the Pretenders. Was this band what catapulted her to the zeitgeist? How have I never heard this before? Is this Iceland's response to Echo and the Bunnymen? Punky new wave, proto-grunge? Unique sound combinations that unlock new neural pathways. This is an album that demands another listen.
4. It was a very good track with a beautiful sound to it. There were just a few points where it brought points down for me
A solid classic with Bjork's old band.
Really enjoyable. Young bjork?!
This one worked for me more than I expected, having had no prior knowledge of this band. I really enjoy Björk's vocals. 4/5
This is a fun one, very off beat poppy new-wave/post-punk kinda stuff. I put this one on when the mood strikes me, it's a very solid 4 IMHO.
I liked her voice
Strong debut album, best Sugarcubes album by consensus. The postpunk influences are great - favourite songs: delicious demon; blue eyed pop; deus; sick for toys. Other songs are good as well. Just fall short of 5 stars. score: 8/10.
Very nice to hear Bjork in this rock/postpunk setting.
Solid late 80s vibe that I enjoy very much
Can’t say I’ve listened to Icelandic rock before. Pretty good listen that got better over time in my opinion. I honestly thought they were at their best when they embraced the Icelandic in them.
did not realize bjork would be on here. great vocals throughout.
parece la movida madrileña de fuera de españa
Bjork 10/10 El otro men No comment
Great bit of musical history - I'm not surprised the critics focused on Bjork - of course they did! Guys voice annoyed.
I like this more than her solo albums. Bjork's vocals coupled with music that has more pace is a great combination. The instruments fly all over the place and would make dance floors in Iceland hot. This is Alternative music before the genre became so-called Alternative music.
Love the energy on this one
Bjork Band
A wild Björky ride.
kinda bonkers, I like it. B52s-ish meets The Cardigans.
I've gotten a couple of Bjork albums thus far and they've been a bit too eclectic for my tastes BUT I really enjoyed this! 4/5
Birthday the standout. Nothing can beat Bjork's voval gymnastics and the way she attacks teach track
'Birthday' is altijd al een van mijn favoriete nummers geweest, en de rest van dit album bevalt me ook bovenbest.
Wat een vondst dit!
You know, I think I like my bjork better when served with some Sugarcubes.
Bjork is actually interesting here. Kind of get a feeling that they were inspiration for The Cranberries.
Des morceaux de sucres très à propos avec une Björk ma foi bien plus inspirée que quand elle fait du trip-hop, ce genre musical atroce.
I first heard The Sugarcubes on the radio only a couple of weeks ago. I didn’t recognise the music, but I thought, “This sounds like Björk but it isn’t super weird. Who could this be?” And that’s when I found out the Björk used to be in a band. Songs I already knew: none Favourites: Motorcrash, Blue Eyed Pop I write this review as somebody who never understood the appeal of Björk. I’ve always found it to lean a few miles too far into strangeness to find it appealing. However, with The Sugarcubes, we have music that it much more approachable while still showcasing her unique voice (and the other singer too). Despite being released in 1988, this reminded me of 90’s alt rock bands such as Plumtree at times, perhaps demonstrating being quite ahead of their time. Overall, a really enjoyable album. If you’re one of the few who doesn’t particularly like Björk’s solo work, don’t necessarily write off this album.
Liked the new wave and hearing her with a band
Actually nice. Felt really crispy, a change of pace from the albums that I got recently so that might also be why I rate this 4 stars.
Good album before Bjork launched her solo career.
As is probably the case with most people, I have been a fan of Bjork's solo music for awhile now, without having listened to or heard of The Sugarcubes. I am continually impressed by Bjork's versatility as a singer, and this album was no exception. Her trademark style was present throughout the duration of "Life's Too Good", yet it maintains the band's overall sound. I especially love when she does that high-pitch scream thing, it's a bit jarring at first, but then it adds to the music I think. One issue I have with the album though is the songs kind of blend together, after the first few tracks. First two songs are bangers by the way :) Was happily surprised overall, especially because I went in with no expectations about the band, besides knowing Bjork was singing. Love you Bjork <3
Rating: 8/10 Best songs: Motorcrash, Birthday, Delicious demon
Grupo de Björk. Está bien. Un 4.
It's a tale as old as time. Band makes album intending to be humorous. Album ends up being groundbreaking debut of musical superstar. Band is forced to continue making albums. I'm not sure what there is to say about this album. It sounds very good, and Bjork is incredible as usual. Her voice is soaringly powerful, yet supple and idiosyncratic as well. The album gets a lot less interesting any time anyone else is doing vocals, but luckily that rarely happens. I was surprised that I already knew two songs off of this album. The music compliments everything that she does well. It's not terribly interesting or groundbreaking music, but it's good enough to sound great when paired with Bjork 4/5
Björk’s growl is incredible, the shrill scream contrasted with chimes on Birthday is a great touch and her trailing “da-da”s towards the ends show her off hand vocal smarts. Great jangly guitar and accompaniment generally, they have great rhythm on top of melodic lines. I love Björk and alt-rock so this is a no brainer I’d like it. US edition with bonus tracks not recommended. I should listen to the new Björk album, like fuck why haven’t I already?
Неожиданно энергичный и несколько абстрактный пост-панк из Исландии приятно разбавил мой музыкальный фон. Этот альбом моментально цепляет своими необычными абсурдными текстами, исполнение которых местами напоминает чистую психоделию, а в некоторых моментах и вовсе проскальзывает влияние классического панка. (8)
I can already hear Björk's unique and dazzling sound and style here, both vocally and musically. What a treasure!
Did not know this was bjork until the second song. This album was great. I adore the song “Birthday”.
Ok
Tof en grappig album. Doldwaze hoes ook
Fuck. That was good! Great find.
Never have managed to get into Bjork - but I really liked this, so maybe I'll give her another go too. Really liked Motorcrash, Delicious Demon and Coldsweat. Not so keen on Birthday - it's a bit shouty (which is fine, just not for me!)
Prefs: Traitor, Motorcrash, Birthday, Delicious Demon, Deus, Sick for Toys, F***ing in Rythm and Sorrow Moins pref: Take Some Petrol Darling
It's so jarring hearing Bjork singing in something that isn't hyperpop, but it still goes hard
Bjork’s first band and that’s all I really know to be honest and from the first track (traitor) you can tell this thing is wired with male spoken word vocals backed by Bjork’s beautiful screaming. The rest of the of the album does mostly tone down after though. I think her singing is definitely not something that appeals to everyone that hears it but I’ve really enjoyed it, I also think that while she obviously goes in a more experimental pop direction Bjork’s music is quite grounded in the formalities of rock music so to hear her in a rock band was cool. If I had to call out specific best tracks on the album they would probably be: traitor, delicious demon, mama, coldsweat and deus! But honestly, I like all of the tracks especially when they get weird 4/5!
Odmah sam rekao da mi se album cover ne sviđa. Čitajući o albumu, općenito jer mi je glas bio nekako poznat, i gle vraga, Björk je na albumu, to je njen bend prije nego što je ošla u solo vode. Interesting, interesting indeed! Album nije imao baš neki najbolji opener, ali što je kasnije išlo - razvezale su se pertle i krenula je dobra glazba ispadati iz zvučnika (ignorirajući nekad muški glas jer većinom nema baš šta posebno za reći, a Björk je ukrala show, odlična.)
Björk's singing just got my heart. This album is so strange, upbeat, so many different things going on, very good.
I wonder what a mix of this would sound like if you removed Einar's shouty vocals?
Fun, Bjork before the extreme arty experimentation. Includes the wonderful Birthday and I really like the music and groove of Blue eyed pop even if it a complete ironic send-up.
Peel of the high gloss layers of 80's rock and you'll find Björk! A women I'd prostrate myself before and pledge my undying devotion if only she'd song sweetly in my ear.
4.0 - Having been a Björk fan, I was eager to explore the Sugarcubes but I made the mistake of purchasing their other, more critically acclaimed "Here Today..." record. I hated Einar Benediktsson's obnoxious spoken contributions, shouting about dumb shit like lobster and shrimp. Too whacky. But on this debut record, Benediktsson's contributions are far less distracting. I can actually appreciate the warbly interplay of guitar and drums on "Birthday" where Björk breathily sings about a girl who "threads worms on a string" and "keeps spiders in her pocket." Björk's weirdness is front-and-center without that other wanker crowding her out.
Has this uncomfortable vibe of two strangers next to you on the bus talking out loud about the most specific pornographic stuff. Great album though
Yeah
Wel degelijk, maar vrouwenstemmen blijven niet helemaal mijn ding.
Caught me off guard. Really enjoyed this.
This is cool glimpse into early Bjork - you can really hear some of the same themes that she returns to for Human Behavior many years later.
Bjork is great as always
Icelandic pop perfection
Love this. Björk's voice is so unique and the sugar cubes really rocked. Not heard any of these songs before (I think Hit is the only one of theirs I know). Good fun.
I will become a cowboy 🤠 Cool album with Bjork and some early alt rock sounds
I really disliked when the guy sang/talked but wow I was really into bjork’s voice, never listened to her before. I can see how she was influenced by that early 80s new wave alt rock female vocal style, but she totally builds on and surpasses it. I don’t usually like this genre but bjonk makes it cool
Obviously Bjork. But also the drumming in this is really fun and exciting. The sense of humor of everyone in the band is notable throughout the album. Listening to the Icelandic lyrics is also fun, despite not understanding any of the words.
Damn fine album. Post-punk meets 80s synth pop. Bjork catches a lot of slack, but like Yoko Ono, her skill is in her range and this album doesn't suffer as a result. This is a revisit-worthy album. 4/5.
The Sugarcubes: great band with a one of a kind incredible lead singer and a sometimes secondary lead singer who wishes he was Frank Black. Rilo Kiley: great band with a one of a kind incredible lead singer and a sometimes secondary lead singer who wishes he was Elliott Smith.
I don’t even really fully understand why, but… I really like this album. I know I shouldn’t. It’s just so odd it’s appealing. And I enjoy the music. Birthday is one of my favorite songs. I don’t mean just on the album, I mean favorite songs. Bjork’s vocals bridge ethereal and gutteral and it works for me.
Bjork!
Very interesting album. As always, Bjork is perfect. On the drum side, it feels like Neil Peart playing in a post-punk band and it's really cool. Among the other musicians, I feel a strong desire to innovate. However, it looks like a young group whose best is yet to come, with songs just not yet fully developed or compositions not strong enough. It's hard to rate this album. I feel in a good mood: 4 stars.
A 'kids in the dressing up box' of an album, but it just works.
I was listening to this and thought, "huh, the lead singer is really doing their best Bjork impression." Cue me being surprised to learn that this was the band Bjork was in before she made it big! Listening to Bjork is an experience, and look, realistically not everyone's going to like that experience. I happen to enjoy it a lot. I think her vocals are unique, weird, and strong. So for me this album was totally enjoyable, but I can see why some people are turned off by it.
Nice to see this on the list. I listened to all of Bjork's pre-solo projects a few years ago, and some of them just had novelty/curiosity appeal, but The Sugarcubes are good on their own terms! Nice mixture of post-punk and alt-rock. I remember their next two albums sound more poppy, so this is probably the one to get. Bjork's dynamic vocals are a strong presence - but I would recommend this even to people who aren't fans of her solo stuff. 4*
What a voice. Bjork is a revelation and the music and songs are great too. 3.75 🌟
A joy to hear this!
It has taken me a few days to write a review of this. That is partially procrastination, but there was also a desire to let the album sit for a day or two. This is an album of quite some density. I would have also said of some uniqueness, but the post-punk/goth/indie roots of this are unmistakable. In that regard, it does the job rather finely. Often the album charms in its quirkiness, but of course that word warns of the possiblity for irritation. For me, it avoided that, but I would not battle someone who found it properly flossed their punani. Along with that, I think it just narrowly misses the knock-out blow tthat would make it a full 5-starrer. Maybe another listen would bump it up, but maybe not. Still, great fun.
Albums like Life's Too Good are precious because they found great artists at their beginnings... and show all the promise that will be fulfilled lated. Just plain fun, and brilliant at the same time.
I never thought that Björk was actually a member of a band, let alone a post-punk band! Ans she's on fire here, carrying an incredible vocal energy while staying in the post-punk territory. The instrumentals, while generic at some places, are great too. Love the drum beats on some tracks. Overall, with such volcanic vocals and cool instrumentals, this slightly exotic album is equivalent to a little walk in one of my favorite countries.
Icelandic Post-Punk Pop, now there is a Genre! wonderful debut by the Sugar Cubes, super high octane post-punk pop and dare I say the introduction to the world of the force of nature that is Bjork! wonderful stuff from the band rightfully on the list. Favourites are "MotorCrash" "Birthday" and "Coldsweat" Rightfully on the list here!
Iso peukku, positiivinen yllättäjä
Extremely enjoyable. Björk's vocals are incredibly unique.
Enjoyed this one, different in a good cool edgy way. The Bjork vocals are great
Really enjoyed. Bizarre and fascinating, loved the mischievous feel and rhythms.
Cool, enjoyed this a lot
Deze vind ik leuk! Ga ik nog wel vaker luisteren.
Bjork heeft zo een toffe stem! Maakt me helemaal vrolijk! Graaf album!
A truly unique take. Interesting to hear a more poppy side of Björk.
I was about to write a review about how good this sounds by itself but how much it is elevated by the singers performance. Then I realized its Björk so yeah that's suddenly incredibly obvious. This a good one
-Pretty cool album. Good number of solid tracks. "Delicious Demon" is definitely my favorite -Pretty good. Not mind blowing, but just generally nice tracks with interesting stuff going on
Björk is on fire.
What a voice. Bjork is a revelation and the music and songs are great too. 3.75 🌟
This album has a fun infectiousness. Bjork sounds right at home in front of a post punk band. Delicious Demon is a sleeper hit. That was so fun!
pretty cool i wish it was longer. love bjorks voice
The Sugar Cubes were too early. But considering Björk apparently had a record deal when she was all of 11 years old, maybe they were right on time. This is the album No Doubt wished they could have made. And like Gwen Stefani, Björk was too big of a personality to just front some band. Bigger things like swan suits and Spike Jonze videos awaited her. They key track here is "Birthday", a song I listened to so many times that I'm sure my Spotify algorithm exploded.
Gooder
really not that bad. 4 is a bit of a stretch but 3 is too little. Will check them out more
Good knew nothing if it but enjoyable album
Strange first exposure to Bjork but ok. I love post-punk, and the Sugarcubes do everything right to fill in the checkmarks. It's like if the B-52s went the alt rock route rather than synth-based New Wave route. Bjork's voice sometimes sounds like the Cranberries's lead except Icelandic which is close enough to Irish. Songs are impactful and weird, with my favorites being Birthday and Deus.
now this is my style. i can't get enough of björk's vocals. her voice is so expressive and pairs perfectly with the... for lack of better words, spunky, instrumentals. #1 Birthday #2 Motorcrash #3 Delicious Demon
Great sound
was very chaotic but i kinda liked it. the band björk was in
love love love