Reviews (page 2 of 7)
Feel like I'm giving too many five star reviews but this is one of the best albums of the it's and one of Bob Mould's finest which is a pretty high bar for anyone.
Flashback central. I listened to this and other Sugar albums a ton back in high school. I loved it then, I love it now. Is nostalgia biasing my rating? Maybe. To put it in the parlance of my youth: would I put every song on here on a mixtape? No, but most are mixtape worthy. The part of my brain dedicated to guitar riffs was very happy to hear this again after many years. I never saw Sugar in concert but I did see Bob Mould solo in 2005 or so and he was great.
Love this album, have loved this for a while now, just the right amount of rock and a little poppiness. My deep dark secret is that I like Sugar more than Husker Du. So yeah. Not too nuanced, me.
An easy 5 for me. Loved this album since it came out. The Beaster EP (recorded at the same time as Copper Blue) is awesome, too. Faves: "If I Can't Change Your Mind", "Hoover Dam", "A Good Idea"
Amazingly how i missed this band, cause it sounds like everything i love. 5 out of 5.
Yeah pretty coool
A great power pop album from Bob Mould.
This album sounds so familiar but I can’t say I know any of these songs. Definitely a product of its era but to me is incredibly solid. Gives me mostly REM and Foo Fighters vibes, but here and there there’s some Barenaked Ladies or even Crash Test Dummies. This is an album that, whether I heard it back then or not, I’m glad to have been exposed now. Really dig this one!
Definitely like Sugar better than Husker Du. Copper Blue is an alt rock masterpiece, with some anthemic songs. The increased focus on melody and slightly poppier vocals than Mould's other work definitely marks this out. I'm a real sucker for heavy guitars with sweet singalongs and this ticks both those boxes ✅
"Copper Blue" is the debut studio album by American alternative rock band Sugar. All songs were written by former Hüsker Dü member Bob Mould and the album was produced by Lou Giordano. A decent description of their music is "the punk guitar of Mould's previous band, Hüsker Dü, while slowing the slowing the tempo and employing melody." I'd argue that a lot of Hüsker Dü had decent melodies. Mould was the vocalist and played guitar, keyboards and percussion. Other members included bassist David Barbe and drummer Malcolm Travis. Commercially, it hit #10 in the UK. Wow! It was also critically well-received. A guitar sounding like an engine revving kicks the album off in "The Act We Act." Loud and clear drums. Mould singing about acting like nothing is wrong when a relationship is over. Nice melodies throughout this song and the whole album for that matter. The song ends with the same revving guitar sound. "A Good Idea" has eerie guitar noises within an overlayed guitar melody. A fast and humming bass by Barbe. A great guitar sound. A dark humored love song. '"Changes" has a ringing bells at the start and is a little more pop-ish. Echoing vocals. Sometimes you need to change to accommodate someone. Drums open right into a great guitar riff in "Helpless." Very catchy. Here's your anthemic power pop song. Mould has no clue what his partner wants. "Hoover Dam" has a majestic feel to the vocals and music. Bells, pages turning, marching band drums and two keyboard solos. He's standing on the edge of Hoover Dam. Will he get swept away? "If I Can't Change Your Mind" is a happy sounding pop song juxtaposed by the lyrics which tell of a break up. This was the fourth single from this album. Mostly fast rhythms mixed with catchy, melodic guitar hooks. A lot of this album I would put in the power pop and anthemic category but, undoubtedly, it's good song after good song. Really no let up. Firecracker drums and a thumping bass. This is a great sounding album; I don't think I can say about any Hüsker Dü album. This a fabulous album from a guy, Bob Mould, that has a lot of them and this one is up near the top.
These reviews are an argument for listening to the albums in chronological, rather than random, order. Listen, kids, there would be no Nirvana or Pixies without Bob Mould. In my personal pantheon I rate Grant Hart a little higher as a songwriter and I therefore like Hüsker Dü a bit better than Sugar, but I'm not going to split hairs. Totally solid power punk.
This album makes me happy. Love Bob Moulds various bands and projects. Always makes poppy grungey happy dancey guitar based loveliness. Stand out tracks ‘Changes’ and ‘If I Can’t Change Your Mind’
Actually really like the Scooby Doo era vibes of this one 5/5
Oh, is this what Foo Fighters would sound like if they were good? (I said what I said, don’t @ me, dad rockers). This album sounds quite of its time, but there’s something about it that elevates it above some of its contemporaries. That’s probably because I’m a sucker for good melodies — I was always a bit more of a Collective Soul kind of kid over a lot of the grunge sound. These songs have the introspective, dark soul of grunge but with brighter-sounding music. In fact, “Hoover Dam” sounds like what would happen if The Cure wrote Collective Soul’s “World I Know.” There are actually quite a few sounds and effects on this album that remind me of The Cure’s “Wish” album that came out the year before (“If I Can’t Change Your Mind” came on as I was typing this sentence and it sounds like a Del Amitri take on “Friday I’m in Love.”) There’s a lot of post-punk and shoegaze influence here, which is great for me. There are bass lines that wouldn’t be out of place on a Sisters of Mercy album, and some songs sound like a more radio-friendly version of what the Pixies were doing around this time. I’m woefully unversed in most of Husker Du’s music, and based on this album, on Bob Mould’s work as a whole. I will definitely be correcting that. 5/5
Yes, yes, yes! I get if you have no idea who this is, as I didn't either until about two years ago. I was listening to Husker Du's Warehouse as part of the 1,001 list and a couple songs from this album kept popping up on autoplay. I took immediate notice - who is THIS? Loved it. Bob Mould (from Husker Du) formed Sugar after going solo; he has help on bass and drums. I don't know what it is but this album just does it for me. I decided to listen to it a few months ago and couldn't stop playing it. The grungy bass lines and guitar licks (and Mould's perfectly matched vocals) to kick off the album on The Act We Act is a good start. The absolutely rocking second song A Good Idea (right from the throbbing bass and taking a hit from a bong? to the droning guitar riffs) locks it in. I dare you not to rock along. Changes, Helpless, If I Can't Change Your Mind, and Fortune Teller are also crunchy, rocking tunes. Man on the Moon closes the album just as awesomely as it opened (great hooks, great melody). Not a single weak song on this album. There are so many great grunge / alternative albums from the 90's but this one flew right under the radar. It should be right up there with other DIY'ers like the Pixies. It is now on my all time favorite list.
Awesome. Not heard this for years. Still great
For the thirty-plus years since it's release, "Copper Blue" has been in my "Top Three" must-have albums. I wouldn't last more than a few days on a desert island without it. The listening experience gets even better when "Copper Blue" is paired with its "evil twin" EP, "Beaster", which was released about six months later. Infinite stars for this one. An excellent choice, Mr. Dimery.
Feels like one of those 90s alternative rock bands I always like so much. More of a poppy feel with the vocals. Not really a dull spot on here and I enjoyed it from start to finish.
I loved this album. Great rock music from the 90s from a band I’ve never heard of. Alt rock at it’s peak
1992. Copper Blue is the debut studio album by American alternative rock band Sugar
Honestly really good. Like a heavy distorition REM
This site determined to give me grungey vibes the whole way through October at this rate, and I am not opposed!! The opening tracks helped me imagine I was in some coming of age movie credits instead of just sitting at a desk at work
A perfect time capsule of the mid 90’s. I wasn’t expecting this to be so familiar to me. It’s got a real “soundtrack to summer” vibe.
Not sure how this one slipped through. I was listening to tons of stuff like this back then. But I'm hearing it now.Thoroughly enjoyable album. I might check out Husker Du while I'm at it.
Favourite tracks: the act we act; a good idea; changes; helpless; man on the moon
A surprisingly fun journey of the expanded universe of Bob Mould
Cool
My vote would have gone to another Husker Du album on the list, but all three Sugar albums are great. This one got Hoover Dam, the best Sugar song, and is a proper 5 star album.
Very surprised. Loved it!
Heck yeah! Other than Hoover Dam this album is nearly perfect. Hooks galore, loud guitars and that Bob Mould voice. If I Can't Change Your Mind was on so many of my mixtapes back in the day.
five stars, fantastic album. More bob mould!
I didn't expect to see this here. This is a phenomenal album. It mustve been hard to follow up Husker Du but Bob Mould knocked it out of the park. If I can't Change Your Mind hits so damn hard if you've ever been in that position and is just insanely catchy too. This ALMOST makes up for the bizarre choice of Warehouse: Songs and Stories while ignoring the true classic Husker Du albums. Almost.
Is it blasphemous to say that I prefer this album to anything from Husker Du? Well I do! I always that Bob Mould was the punky noisy side of the theam Husker Du team and that Grant Hart was the softer melodious, pop sensibility side. This album calls that into question. Copper Blue is amazing from beginiing to end. Tough but with melodies and hooks and up the wazoo. Side 1 is an absolute tour de force and side 2 offers little let p to the song writing greatness. One of my favorite albums of the 90s. 5 stars
I love this album, I’ve listened to it sooo many times. Top-to-bottom, play right through every track. It’s a classic as far as I’m concerned.
Really cool album
I forgot about this record! Brings me back to good times while listening to it. This album and band is the best incarnation of Bob Mould.
Woah. OK. This is an awful lot poppier than I expected, and that's not a bad thing. I grew up through the birth of grunge, and I knew who Bob Mould was but never listened to either Sugar or Husker Du. I think I missed out.
Great early 90s
Great Album
9/10 love this shit — so catchy I need to hear the deluxe remaster sometime
Taking me right back to teenager.
I’ve panned a lot of albums on this list for being all one tone. I concede that Sugar is guilty of this, but I really like this album. I never pieced it together before, but I think the reason I don’t like Smashing Pumpkins is because they aren’t Sugar. Four stars +1 bonus star for the most aggressive tambourine playing ever recorded on a couple of those tracks.
Melodic sonic squall.
Brilliantly fills the gap between grunge and britpop, hinting at the sound of Nirvana and oasis, foo fighters and biffy, Pearl jam and stereophonics. A great album I would never have otherwise heard, and exactly the point of doing this (in my opinion)
The description read like a perfect recipe for what I want to listen to, and the album did not disappoint in the slightest. The marriage of punk power chords and the alternative vocals really works well for me. The album itself feels like it transitions from punk to alternative as it goes on, and I love it. The instrumentation is simply fantastic--I hear REM in here very strongly. Favorite track: Changes
I really enjoyed this, it had some elements of grunge but also 90s rock - kind of like the Breeders. There were also some moments that reminded me of 70s/80s art rock I.e. XTC which I really liked. I hadn’t heard of this band and was really surprised to see this was Bob Mould’s project. Husked Du came up on this on a previous day and I really didn’t like it, but I found this album to be way better produced, with more variety in the songs. I decided when I started doing this album challenge that I wouldn’t be too shy to give a 5 star rating and considering how much I enjoyed it on the first listen and how there didn’t seem to be any low points I think it qualifies as 5 star album. I will definitely come back to it.
Excellent next step for Bob Mould post Husker Du. Powerful album
Right up my alley.
The best, or at least my favourite post-Husker Du album from Bob Mould's power trio, Sugar. Mould's first couple solo records after Husker Du broke up were subdued and softer, but Mould turns up the volume again with his new band and Copper Blue is a return to melodic, catchy power-pop rock that was evident on the last Du record, Warehouse. Grant Hart and Mould released some decent albums in the 90's, but Copper Blue stands out and is there a better side one, especially the first four songs that open the album, in the 90's? Solid album and I still play it often!
Perhaps it sounds similar to other alt-rock albums at the time and not as original as his previous work but damn I love this album. Loud fuzzy guitar and I really like the way his vocals were recorded on this.
Mould is one of my favorite singer/songwriter/guitarists of all time. I can’t even recall how many times I’ve seen him from Hüsker Dü to solo to Sugar to solo again… This record has everything I love about his work. Full of hooks and also hard edged, moody or dark. Signature electric guitar growl but sometimes with jangly 12 string behind it, multi tracked harmonized vocals and such a full soundstage. This a super easy 5⭐️.
This is a great record. It captures the energy of the early Husker Du records and blends them with the 90s sound. Its surprising to see how well this works compared to the last Husker Du record.
It's very good. There are certain singers/artists that are just special and Mould is one of them. Sure, it's early 90s alt distilled into a single album, but there's nothing wrong with that, that sound the crunchy then jangly guitars, the severe overdubs, etc, are all part of the charm. Also I hear a lot of influences for more popular music (espcially early Foo Fighters) on this album. Sort of how you can tell how much The Pixies influenced Nirvana, I feel Grohl must have had this album on repeat when he was creating writing.
Zalige ontdekking! Beetje Foo Fighters avant la lettre. Enorm van genoten
Loved this album! A true fusion of the top rock bands of the 90s. Reminded me a mix of Manic Street Preachers, a bit of REM with some slightly heavier surprises added in. Great stuff.
Good old rock, a vintage classic sound. Very satisfying find
Uno de los mejores discos de los 90.
zeer graaf, dave grohl vibes
Solid
Legendary
Exquisite. Perfection.
Light 4
I liked a few songs off this album without ever taking the time to try the whole album, but I should have. This album is just solid 90s alt. Loud fuzzy guitars, hidden in the mix vocals.
I remember hearing these songs on the alternative station in 92 and on MTVs 120 minutes. It wasn't really something I pursued listening to but was certainly part of the soundtrack of that era of my high school years. It's a decent enough album that gets an extra star for its nostalgia factor.
Not really much to say. It fits right in with what I typically listen to. Good stuff.
I love that Mould influenced Nirvana, then Nevermind inspired this.
Fantastic album! Love the power pop.
I consider myself to be a fan of Bob Mould. I've enjoyed his work across Hüsker Dü, his solo output, and this particular group. Sugar was formed out of Mould building working relations with ex-Mercyland bassist David Barbe and ex-Human Sexual Response drummer Malcolm Travis. By that point, Mould had already released two solo records, eschewing the hardcore style of Hüsker Dü in favor of a more melodic folk sound. With Sugar's debut, Copper Blue, Mould managed to bridge the gap between the two. There is a balance struck between the thick, distorted guitars of punk and more accessible melodies on this record. Barbe and Travis form this tight rhythm section that builds each composition for such bright flurries of guitar riffs to go off, bolstered by decent production from Mould and Lou Giordano. There's an almost defiant brightness to these tunes, which serve as a nice contrast to the rather dark lyrics that Mould came up with. The opening track, "The Act We Act," centers on the harsher emotions we thinly veil behind facades. "A Good Idea" is about drowning a woman, with the man trying to justify those actions in his mind. "Hoover Dam" involves the protagonist contemplating suicide and wondering if they're going to hell. Even on the lighter tracks, we explore themes such as dissolved relationships on "If I Can't Change Your Mind" and isolation on "Man on the Moon". It can get rather grim in places, especially with "The Slim", where the lyrics and instrumental tone match for once, as we witness the death of a beloved one from AIDS while those haunting keyboards creep in the mix. It is a deeply profound centerpiece for this album. That said, I wouldn't say I was blown away by this record overall, given the output of other alternative rock bands around this time. Not to mention, I started feeling this album was overstaying its welcome a bit around "Slick". Still, I enjoyed Copper Blue as a delightfully decadent slice of that sound from an underrated singer-songwriter and company. It is cool to see Sugar reform towards the end of last year, as I appreciate what they offered.
Donc ceci a été fait par un ancien de Hüsker Dü ? C'est pas étonnant, on reconnaît ces guitares au son très flou, presque shoegaze avant l'heure. Par contre, tous les aspects punk de son ancien groupe sont totalement absents. Il reste donc une sorte d'album de rock alternatif au son très flou qui lui vaut même d'être qualifié plus ou moins de noise pop sur Rate Your Music. Bon, dans tous les cas, c'est un album très cool, efficace, avec des mélodies hyper prenantes. Au départ, je pensais partir sur un 3, mais je commence sérieusement à envisager de mettre un 4. Parce que même si au départ, j'ai pas trouvé ça hyper ambitieux, mais d'un autre côté, je ne peux pas m'empêcher de trouver ça hyper efficace. On verra bien quelle sera mon humeur demain matin !
Catchy, guitar-driven riff-rock. Like a heavier Lemonheads.
Who doesn’t love an almost Hüsker Dü record?
best nice, beetje nirvana achtig
I really enjoyed this one. Everything up to and including If I Can’t Change Your Mind was brilliant. It loses a star because the last three tracks didn’t do as much for me. Still a great album and one I will definitely go back to. Top Track - Helpless
The Pixies are just Bob Mould but with Kim Deal
Really good sounding album. Melodic and slick. I've never heard of Sugar. Makes me wonder why it is that some bands break through and others disappear almost without trace. It can't just be the naff name surely.
Cool! i enjoy it
I always thought that I should like Husker Du more than I should, but I think Sugar hits this for me. Should get more Bob Mould in my life.
distilled essence of 90's alternative. surprised I never heard of it
8/10 Loud ass alt rock, with all the good and bad that comes with it. It's not the most unique thing but it's an enjoyable listen.
I’m surprised I never listened to this album before, really good.
Heavy, but melodic rock. Vocals kinda sounded like bare naked ladies
Very good
8/10
Для мене це чітке попадання в 3.5. Є хороші пісні, класний звук гітар, але на 100% не потрапляє в мене. Немає тут бенгера для мене. Мені здається, я його слухав раніше, проте цілком допускаю, що можу помилятися, бо не те щоб сильно щось пам'ятав із цих пісень.
Я дуже поважаю Боба Моулда та його проекти. Звісно ж хускер ду (чи хаскер?) це мабуть основне за чим він відомий, але Sugar теж клас - класичний для Боба емо\панк\альтернативний рок. Фірмові мелодії, особливо подобаються тут Changes та The Slim.
Taking me back to my college days
Solid album
excellent
I like it! Dog var "Slick" temmelig ringe.
I love Bob Mould's voice and the Sugar sound. This is peak "compression wars" flat recording, but for this genre it's almost acceptable. A bit more raw, with fewer stand out singles as their later "File Under Easy Listening". Helpless was a favorite. Hoover Dam's annoying 80s synth was a low point. If I Can't Change Your Mind was another strong one.
Nice to revisit - it must have been 20 years since I last heard it. It's a perfectly serviceable album in the pop-punk-indie-power-trio mould (excuse the pun), with a line in Smiths-esque wistfulness. It's good enough for a 3 or 4, depending on how positive I feel that day, but is it really a top 1000 ever album? Not sure. 4 because I'm inclined to feel generous
Bob Mould Rules!
This album is a total time capsule of early 90s 120 Minutes and me being a total loser with acne in high school - still have the acne somehow but I feel confident I'm not a loser now, and so it's great to enjoy some stellar early 90s alternative rock without that level of insecurity.
Big, meaty, melodic - it’s not Husker Du but it will certainly do.
Good lyrics and get better in some musics.
In 2012 Len Houmous proposed a show for the opening ceremony of the London Olympics. It was called Sugar and starred his ginger haired stripper alter ego Copper Blue. 3.8 6/10 The Slim
Yep I liked this. It was right in my grungy garage band wheelhouse. Never heard of them before but pretty much every song reminded me of another band of the time, in a good way.
This was a staple of mine, on heavy rotation for a while. Love Husker Du, love Bob Mould, and love Sugar.
Bob Mould takes an overview of alt-rock from the time Hüsker Dü had finished, crams the data into a strong band unit and conveniently writes his best pop songs to date. It’s a powerful mix but not with guaranteed success; knowing the right late 80s/early 90s sounds to siphon/channel/steal could easily go wrong and no-one can really be sure a new group of musicians will be shit-hot together. It worked out great though and the songwriting is the real bonding agent. Copper Blue doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but celebrates an experienced artist pausing for a moment and, subconsciously or otherwise, using that experience to make good choices. Meanwhile some less experienced bands were taking inspiration from exactly the same sources, and applying a similar process yet the results were some of the worst music I have ever heard. I’ve already given 1 or 2 stars to a few of them and I know there will be several more in the 1001. In the 90s, I swerved the shitshow by simply moving on to bands who had taken a different path altogether, but Sugar proved it was still possible to excel without switching lanes.
Decent.
Überraschung für mich! Ich hatte das vor einem Jahr oder so schon mal gehört und wegsortiert. Jetzt fand ich es sehr angenehm. Erinnert mich an die Foo Fighters, gefällt mir aber besser.
meisterhaft und absolut hörenswert! melodiöser indie/punk/rock mit melodie.
Another group I had never heard of, although I know Husker Du and Hunan Sexual Response which were the former bands of a couple of members. I enjoyed the album. All of the songs were pretty good, with If I Can’t Change Your Mind the standout. This is an album I will be listening to again.
A fun refreshing rock album! I enjoyed it a lot, one I’d for sure wanna revisit
Fun. “The Slim” my fav track. This album sounds like something from the 2000's, but it’s early's 90's.
Copper isn't blue idiot
A nice bit of rock.
Decent 99s rock
I enjoyed this. Reminded me of Pixies and Nirvana
I got into Bob Mould with the 'hub cap' album which was a few years after this and I think his first post-Sugar work. I was obsessed with the song Egoveride from that album where he somehow gets his guitar to sound like a demented ice cream truck siren feeding back on itself. I played it very loud and probably annoyed the hell out of people. It was a few years later that I went back and checked out Copper Blue and though it's great and holds up really well, the self-titled solo record is still my favourite. I saw Bob live about five years ago, just him and his guitar, I got COVID about a week after that, and I'm pretty sure it was contracted at that gig, so I'm going to have to knock a star off for that association
I remember this being NME's absolute obsession when it came out, and I just couldn't see it. Listening back now, it's very good. I preferred it to the Husker Dü album I've had, at its best it was like an American Teenage Fanclub. The Act We Act, Changes, and If I Can't Change Your Mind are great stuff.
I know Husker Du, but never listened to Sugar. So this is interesting. Pixies vibes for sure. Hear a lot of 90s rock that came after this. Shouldn't be surprised, but it is a great album. 4 Heard before? No Owned: No 48/208 (23%) Will I get: Yes
Bought this album when it came out and loved it. Singles were great. I was/am a huge Husker Du fan, but this was a commercial alternative guitar album which showed Bob Mould’s songwriting skills.
Really interesting. Seems very of it's time but a really solid example of that slightly pop infected grunge sound. I hear common ground with Nirvana, lemonheads, manic street preachers.. The sound is super present in a refreshing way, but I think it slightly grates on my ear after a while (couple of listens through the day). Will return to it
I really like this! Never heard of them. Will dig deeper into this band.
These are my favorite kinds of albums to get on the list: something I’ve never heard before, something mostly forgotten, something I know will enter my regular rotation. Grunge alongside power pop. I’m curious to check out Sugar’s later albums!
You know, it's not so bad once you realize it sounds like things that came after it.
The heavy guitars are really well done. I enjoyed it.
This was a really solid listen. Hearing this kind of Brit rock sound while the Seattle scene was dominating the radio made it stand out more than I expected. It feels like it was doing its own thing instead of chasing trends, which I appreciated. The “she said, she said” refrain in Good Idea immediately reminded me of Breed off Nevermind, and that hooked me right away. There’s also a sort of pre Coldplay vibe floating around here, but with more edge and grit. Fortune Teller gave me early Foo Fighters energy, especially in the way it builds and drives forward. This album had way more going for it than I thought it would. Favorite song: Good Idea
I liked this alot, mostly because of the 90s nostalgia it made me feel, not for any single song though. Couple interesting things though. Mould talks about how nevermind on the radio helped this album. Which I cant imagine to really be true. It doesn't have that sound or nearly that authenticity. He should be looking toward REM. Also, it sounds so much like other contemporary 90s guitar rock that is not held in nearly as high regard. Sounds just like collective soul who is certainly no critical darling. The only reason this is on here is because of Husker Du. If Mould were some kid from New Mexico or wherever and this was the debut, no chance
It's not easy listening, but it's easy to listen to.
Pop rock at its best. Almost all songs are well crafted. Favorite track: if i can’t change your mind other picks: a good idea, hoover dam, fortune teller
The vocal track is terrible, i can barely hear it, but the actual music is pretty cool, taking a lot of influences from stuff I’ve liked in this list. Feels like the best completely new discovery for a while.
This keeps changing as soon as I think I've got a handle on it. Hardcore to grunge then Foo Fighters then jangly British pop. Good listen. Absolutely new discovery to me
4/5
I can hear the influences of many bands like the pixies, smithereens, and others. Really enjoyed the album
Grungey pop-punk. REM in places, Alice In Chains in others, but also like Blink or Sum 41 (or even Smash Mouth!) to come later. Quite impressive for the time, but the sheer number of copycats means the sound doesnt hit the same way in 2026. Ooh, If I Can't Change Your Mind has a gorgeous, explosive starting hook! Best track - A Good Idea, The Slim, If I Cant Change Your Mind Pretty special, even without a lot of mind-blowing moments. Still 4 stars
Nice to hear some "almost" Husker Du; I was happy to see this album on the list as I listen to Helpless frequently. Good to find a few other enjoyable numbers like A Good Idea and Changes.
A little "muddy" in sound, but generally good, built around the lead's voice.
Sugar really hit all the 90’s sweet spots (pun intended) on this 1992 release. Jam packed with catchy hooks, Bob Mould demonstrates with confidence that both his vocals and guitar game are still in a great place following the Husker Du split. It’s got a good layer of fuzz overtop the clean riffs to giver Copper Blue a grunge feel to it. Simply a well executed album here that I had never heard but I’m glad I did. Also, am I crazy for being reminded of Collective Soul at times? Either way, I really did enjoy this one. 4 stars
Great album. But I’m a fan of most anything by Bob Mould tbh….. but check out the Sugar album “File Under Easy Listening”, that’s my favorite from them.
An album I totally forgot about, though really liked it when it came out. I wasn’t much of a Husker Du fan, but Bob Mould’s solo stuff was right in my power pop/pop punk wheelhouse. His work with Sugar continued that trend, and I think this is a very enjoyable record. While I’m not shocked by the low rating on this site, I think it succeeds in what it set out to do-just be a fun album to listen to and not need to be much more than that.
Some fun 90's rock. I wasn't familiar with this band, but sounds very similar to a lot of what I was listening to in high school. I liked it.
Very fuzzy/hazy, dirty basslines. I LOVE the guitar solo in ‘A Good Idea’. Very summery album. Fav song is ‘Man on the Moon’.
I would probably have been all over this in my early 20s.
Pretty solid power alt-pop. It's true, at times Bob Mould does sound like Michael Stipe! Liked Songs Added: The Act We Act A Good Idea Helpless
Nice grungy 90s rock. Poorly mixed so you can barely hear the vocals, just as God and Kurt Cobain intended.
Fun pop rave ups.
Kinda generic but incredibly tolerable Ameri-rock, surprised me
Very underrated
Another one I already know and love, but it really rewarded a more careful listen. Surprised to see it on this list though. I would have guessed something by Husker Dü would be included, but if anything by Sugar was on here I'd have guessed it'd be Beaster.
Somewhere out there on the user list is a guy who is just like me but instead of complaining about all the Bowie and Costello on here, complains about all the Mould and Watt. That guy’s wrong though, and I am right.
New find and it was fantastic
Good 90s angst to it.
Sounds like something that would be playing during a scene in Malcolm in the Middle. In the best way. Liked the sound of it- some song a a tad repetitive though. Fully enjoyable listening experience. Specific rating - 4.3 Fav song- A good idea Least fav- Man on the moon
Did not like it on the first listen and started to enjoy it later on. There's some nice songs in it "The slim" for example
The vocals don't hit on every song, but the vibes are still there and incredible. This record highlights some of the best parts of 90's alternative.
Never got round to listening to Sugar before but enjoyed this a lot, great guitar tones
Never listened to Sugar before but the riffs hooked me straight off the bat. Changes absolutely slapped and the guitars sound massive all the way through
own
Perfect power pop/alternative/whatever from the great Bob Mould of Husker Du. Simple, sweet and to the point, the songs almost never linger, even if a few would have benefitted from being a minute or two less. I think most songs peak at 3.5 minutes- past that they can just get droning and repetative. Best songs: ¨Changes,¨ ¨If I Can't Change Your Mind¨
Hadn't heard of this one, so I initially assumed it was some throwaway 90s alt rock band. Surprisingly though, this is right up my alley! I'm a sucker for these sort of melancholy lyrics paired with optimistic melodies. Love the guitar sound too. Only negatives are that it is slightly repetitive melody wise, and the lyrics are sometimes hard to catch. Will definitely be revisiting this though.
I was going to give 3/5, but I listened for a second time. The intricacy of the music is more sophisticated than I first thought. Like a few albums on this list from early 90s (Sebadoh and Pavement come to mind), you can see where Weezer and Foo Fighters got their ideas. This is like Dinosaur Jr, but more consistent. Okay, the vocals could be better at times, but I’m feeling generous and awarding a fourth star.
Bob Mould, erstwhile of Hüsker Dü, gives us a college radio proto-emo batch of pop-punk that is both timeless and an exemplar of it's time. Timeless thematically, humans always had, and always will have these feelings of loss and bitterness, despair, anxiety and self-doubt. Nothing lyrically ties the songs to its time, no pop culture references or metaphors that won't make sense later. An exemplar of the MTV 120 Minutes modern/alternative heyday of the late 80s/early 90s. "A Good Idea" could be the Pixies. Heavy, lurching guitar rock that sits next to era-defining artists like Nirvana, Screaming Trees, maybe even someone like Urge Overkill. Or a thousand local bands grinding through their set on a Thursday night in 1992, busting their ass for $40 just hoping to get noticed by someone who might get them to the next level.
I can't distill all my thoughts and feelings about Bob Mould's Sugar into a single statement. There's a drive to crystallize, and this is music returning him to a more driving sound while retaining the brilliant evolution in his lyrics. The songs are immediate and immaculately crafted (that's why they've aged so well). I always felt volume helped clarify Mould in ways his quieter post-Hüsker Dü approach didn't. If there was anyone who should be there to reap some benefit from the changes in the musical landscape during the 90s, it's people like Mould, Watt, and other veterans of the early punk years who persisted. I feel like you got to say that kind of thing right before "A Good Idea" comes on and people clutch their Pixies pearls, you know what I mean? Anyway, everyone in my friend group at the time was stoked by this record and Bob's return to form with Sugar. A pal of mine even played "If I Can't Change Your Mind" at the high school talent show. It was sweet.
Ever heard of the 90s Alt band Sugar? I hadn't ... but I like it ... This is exactly the kind of stuff I was really into back in the day!
really good stuff 3.5/5
was all prepared to slam this but wait...i liked it quite a bit
Surprisingly enjoyable. 4.
This is the most 'designed on Paint' album cover I've seen for a long time, but don't let that put you off. It's a pretty good slice of alt rock, from - it turns out - the guy from Husker Du. It doesn't have the same depth or power as Husker Du do, but it's still a good listen and a nice discovery.
How did I miss this banger in the 90s? 14 year old me would have made this my entire identity. The Act We Act, A Good Idea, Helpless, If I Can't Change Your Mind all added to Liked Songs.
Very good, I’d expect this band to have more listeners considering the quality of their music
Old white man but nice to gym on. Something Aart would like
Good tunes, feels very 90's and very unrelenting I think. Everything just working together really well i think. I dont know what else to say lol, just a lot of good musical ideas.
Not to keep framing my thoughts on albums exclusively through the lens of film, but this sound is the platonic ideal of a 90’s soundtrack. Fun catchy rock, low stakes and feels like a hangout.
More my wavelength than Husker Du. Incredible guitar tones throughout this, but I love the whir in the verse of A Good Time especially. Fantastic power pop record. Candy floss.
Wow, that was shockingly good.
Never heard of band or album. Quite good in a very early 90s way
An okay album, I liked A Good Idea the most.
Liked the big rhythm
I’d never heard of Sugar before and wasn’t impressed on my first listen, but after my second listen I was fully hooked on this album.
I didn't know what I expected, but I didn't expect it to be as good as it was. Kinda remind me of real early Foo Fighters, which is never a bad thing.
Good brill
I think this is really solid stuff, it's fun to listen too, yeah it doesn't set the world on fire, but it's really not bad
I feel like this album is almost there. It could have been fantastic, but something just never quite clicked to make it really special.
Really good power-pop, grungy album by Bob Mould and company. Never listened to this when it came out, good to be hearing it now. Was never a big Husker Du fan or a big fan of his solo stuff, but this band hits hard and appeals to my 90's alt rock soft spot. Really enjoyed this.
sounds like a lot of other 90s alt rock but its enjoyable.
Fun skater rock, borderline ska vibes.
This was completely new, but I liked it.
*1992 alt rock. Sounds like Tonic, Soul Asylum, etc. Right up my alley. *Never heard of these guys, but enjoyed it. *Will definitely revisit it. RATING 7.5/10
The Slim is amazing
Really solid album from a band I hadn't heard of before. Seeing that it was Name's album of the year I couldn't help but look up what else was on that list. I personally wouldn't rate it higher than REM - Automatic for the People, PJ Harvey - Dry, Sonic Youth - Dirty, and Nick Cave - Henry's Dream, but I don't think it's completely out of place in that company either. Curiously Right Said Fred appear at #30 on that list!
Great album! Very 90's rock with fantastic guitar riffs and melodies. I don't like the live versions, so definitely listen to the studio recordings. Reminds me of like early Foo Fighters
Wonderful jangly nonsense. Feels of the era in a good way. I listened to a ton of stuff surrounding this band but never this album...though it is familiar. It isn't a very well composed album? Feels like it doesn't flow well from track to track. Has like 6 or 7 really solid tracks though and I'll likely come back again for another listen.
Makes sense that it was the bloke from husker du, this sounded like somewhere between the pixies and REM to me but after learning that I recognise hd in there. The general sound was right up my street but did feel it was a bit too similar to other bands, second song was basically a reworked debaser. When it landed it was very good so a 3.5 I think.
However much I didn't enjoy Hüsker Do's warehouse album, this was great fun. I didn't expect the synths on Hoover Dam, and was reinvigorated by them. Time and a place - I'm on a bus in Oslo. Perfect Oslo bus music. The Slim is also pretty tasty. Little whimsy, lots of musical progression, vocals are solid. Really, really nice.
Thought this was really good, exactly the type of thing I want from this list, something I've never heard of but is right up my street. I think I enjoyed this more than the husker du album, but can tell it's the same guy. I find it funny that it's quite REM ish and there is also a song called man on the moon here.... I'll definitely be back to this. 4.5
I loved this. Every couple weeks I'll get an album of the day that inevitably ends up soundtracking my mowing the lawn. This was that album today, and it fit perfectly. I was hurting, sweating my ass off, and grinning at these fired-up, immediately catchy rock tunes. I've enjoyed Bob Mould's solo albums and it turns out they're just chasing the success of this one. Must-listen #183.
I saw Bob Mould a couple months ago and he definitely played some Sugar songs. I hadn't listened to this record in a long time, and found myself surprised by how much I was loving it. I don't know why, because obviously Bob Mould is great. Just so catchy and jangly and fun. Great record.
I think this is the epitome of early 90's alternative rock. I can hear the Foo Fighters on almost every track. I'm having a hard time balancing why it's here while understanding its relevance. I am probably rating it higher than it deserves, but I really liked Helpless.
Never listened before. Very Toad the Wet Sprcket like.
4/5
basic but still enjoyable
Heard of but never heard. Loved. “The Slim” broke my heart. Listened to it 10+ times. Listened to the album 3 times. It’s a keeper.
Æ va veldig lite imponert, og så prøvde æ å huske kor æ har hørt minst to av sangan før, men æ e fortsatt ikke veldig imponert.
A sentimental favorite. Bob Mould's voice and guitar sound were definitely a key part of the soundtrack of my mid-teens. That sentimentality rounds this up to a 4.
Pretty good
Well. This was definitely a fun buttrock album. This album is like if the L.A's made divorced dad rock. Some songs are catchier than others, I think I like A Good Idea over all the others despite how repetitive it is. Everything is fried to absolute hell on this album, the vocals included. The guitars especially, almost to a shoegaze kinda level too. There's for sure some smashing pumpkins kinda vibes throughout, just a bit more constant and rocking. There's also a bit of a Phil Collins quality to the vocals on this album, if Phil was more into distortion and guitar pedals. Jangly aggressive buttrock and I mean this in the best way. This era has grown on me a lot. The 90s was pretty sick actually man.
solid
Mould really doesn't miss. I love how thick and loud the guitars are, while still being infectiously melodic. This album just makes me incredibly hyped up.
I really liked this. Not a perfect album, but definitely something I listened to multiple times. 4.5/5
I think I missed Sugar completely in the 90's, but was aware of Bob Mould as a member of Hüsker Dü. I know the Pixies were heavily influenced by HD, but was surprised how much some of the songs reminded me of the Pixies and other later alternative band's songs. And this could be considered an easily digestible entry point to HD. I feel like I've heard these songs in the periphery many times before and and songs like Changes manage to take me back to places in the early 90's without me having been consciously aware of the band or the album. For some reason, as I listen to it, it reminds me of parts of The Smithereens' Especially for You album from 86, which is one of my favorites and I wonder if there was some inspiration there. I do remember hearing Helpless at some point. And like a flash this album is over with the slightly more aggressive and mildly anthemic Man on the Moon song as a nice ending point. Beaster, I'm told, is a little harder, can't wait to unpack that.
This was a pretty good album! I love grunge and I haven't heard of this band or album and I was pleased with what I heard!
Generally have difficulty talking about 90's alt rock albums. I like them, just don't really got a ton to say. Think mainly just because a lot of 90's alt kinda just sounds similar to me unless it's very unique like Sleater-Kinney (or this band). But I really enjoyed this record as it breaks the mold of a lot of the stuff that was coming out at the time which for me has been overplayed a bit (grunge). Not used to power pop being this effects-laden and fuzzy/grungy though, which is a breath of fresh air. If I had a complaint its that the production is both a little all over the place and overly consistent/flat at the same time. Like the best tracks are the ones that are fuzziest. The Act We Act, Changes, A Good Idea. But those songs are very flatly produced. Not dynamic at all. Then we have songs like Hoover Dam (probably the weakest track) which is missing all of the fuzziness and grungyness. Sounds like a completely different band.
Solid 4 ⭐ for me. I'm enjoying the melodies and the vibes
Very solid grunge album, but nothing supper special. He writes some pretty good melodies though. Mid 4.
this album was honestly a lot of fun - has that 90s grunge/alt-rock sound that makes for an earworm. I enjoyed it.
Unfamiliar with Sugar. Really cool album
Pure 90s nostalgia. It perfectly bridges the gap between grunge and more mainstream US alternative rock scene of this period. I can also hear the influence they had on my favourite band the Wildhearts, especially in Helpless. Overall a great trip down memory lane
Really liked this, helped enormously by the fact Bob Mould sings like the guy from China Drum (basically, I enjoyed a relatively obscure US band because I really like an even more obscure UK one). I'm even considering listening to the stupidly long Deluxe edition of the record, which is high praise indeed. 4/5
Rockin
love mouldy old dough
It was pretty good!
Aldrig hört talas om bandet, vilket känns konstigt. Klassiskt 90-tals rocksound. Det är ett sound jag diggar. Så trots avsaknad av någon riktig hit så tycker jag det är jämnbra hela albumet, så det blir en fyra.
Ratings: 5: I will happily play this album anytime 4: I may occasionally play this album of my own free will 3: I will happily listen to this if someone plays it in the background 2: I will tolerate this if it is playing in the background 1: I will leave the room if someone plays this in the background Back in the immediate post-Nevermind alternative era when Sugar was played on the local radio station it always sounded like watered down (less passsionate) grunge to me. 30+ years of hindsight and after taking the time to properly listen to the whole album....I get it now. I thoroughly enjoyed this. Maybe not 5* level to me, but solid 4+.
Decent alt rock album
There is an endless amount of 90s albums that for some reason have their band's name in a pretty big font and usually operate within alt rock. Sugar seemingly is no exception to this weird trend and from previous albums like this that I've listened to before Most of what I have to say about it is that I like whenever musicians from this era were blending heavier/distorted guitar with more poppy sounding chords, it gave poppier rock an edge but also just works really well together, which is what this album does perfectly imo. I think I will be coming back to this one quite a bit.
4- Stars (10/15)
First listen. Solid album from beginning to end. The first half is very good. Will come back to this one. Could hear the Bob Mould influence on Foo Fighters.
In a 1983 interview, Bob Mould told interviewer Steve Albini, "We're [Husker Du] going to try to do something bigger than anything like rock & roll and the whole puny touring band idea. I don't know what it's going to be, we have to work that out, but it's going to go beyond the whole idea of 'punk rock' or whatever." And I don't think anybody realised how that change would look, but change things they did. Husker Du married the noise and aggression of punk rock with the melodicism of classic rock and pop, which became the dominant sound of alternative rock by the early 90s. Their willingness to pour on layers of guitar noise over everything helped pave the way for shoegaze. And most importantly, they showed that an underground band could sign to a major label and maintain a semblance of creative control, which is probably the most seismic shift in the rock music industry at the end of the 1980s. Despite being one the key bands pioneering these changes, Husker Du didn't have much to show for it. The major label contract didn't bring any significant commercial returns, and they collapsed in penury, addictions and internecine conflict. I like the two Bob Mould solo albums that followed, which are carefully orchestrated folk rock albums, but very dark in tone. Not many people bought those records, his contract with Viegin collapsed, and I don't think Bob quite knew where he was heading. But then the success of Nevermind and MBV's Loveless, both of which are indebted to Husker Du, prompted him to form a new band and get a bit more back to basics. And that's what the Copper Blue album is: a distillation of what is great about Bob Mould. He was always been a prolific writer, but this is particularly strong set from him. The melodies are strong, the playing is strong, the production is great, and the lyrics a little sunnier that usual (which helped). If you wanted a good career summary of Bob Mould in a single album, then this would be it. Is it as good as Zen Arcade or New Day Rising or Candy Apple Grey? Maybe not, but this was his most commercially successful album, which he achieved by leaning into his strengths just at the moment that he rest of the world caught up with what he had been doing for nearly 15 years. It is hard to begrudge Bob some public recognition, a small victory lap, after the years of dues paid. I confess it had been a long time since I pulled this record off the shelf for a spin, but I'm really glad I have. It's been great to be reminded of what a solid album this is.
Copper Blue is a big, warm wall of guitars—fuzzy but melodic, aggressive but always tuneful. Bob Mould took his Hüsker Dü instincts and polished them just enough to let the hooks shine without sanding off the emotional edge. Tracks like Helpless, If I Can’t Change Your Mind, and Hoover Dam blend power-pop with a grunge-era crunch, giving the album a kind of bittersweet energy that never feels forced. It’s one of those records where nearly every track delivers something memorable—whether it’s a killer riff, a clever lyric, or just that soaring sense of momentum. The sound is dense, sure, but it never gets muddy, and the melodies are strong enough to cut through the noise. It might not get talked about as much as other ‘90s alt-rock landmarks, but Copper Blue holds up remarkably well—equal parts catharsis and craftsmanship.
Yeah...I know this is dated and "of its time". But that time strikes a cord for me. I never knew this album existed until just now. Super enjoyable even if it's "generic 90's alternative music". Even vanilla tastes pretty fucking great from time to time.
Relatively unknown band. Better than I was expecting. Reminded me of REM at times. Low 4.
7/10 - I liked Hoover Dam and man on the moon the rear were not bad. Overall decent album
[8/10]
Bunch of good songs on it, if I can't change your mind is the best one on there but just a bunch of good songs
Quite enjoyed this. All sounded the same but all quite good 7.5/10 - borderline 4 stars
I really like this. It's raw and edgy, but not in a lazy or cringe way.
Great album. Energetic, poppy rock. 9/10.
Solid album
Cool 90’s rock. Bob Mould is great, so I can’t complain!
Hits me in my 90s grungy heart.
I had never heard this album before, vaguely remembered one song but not the name of the band. I had to read up on them to know it was Bob Mould. Great album...I wish I had heard it back in the day, but at least it will go on my play list now!
Post Husker Du Bob Mould is phenomenal. Sugar was a breath of fresh air in the early 90s, and the follow up albums were great too.
I started out this one with my preconceived bias that I didn't really like Sugar because they're too poppy and all the songs sound the same. The songs do have a tendency to all have the same tone, but there is some interesting guitar work on here and I do love Bob Mould's voice. I really liked A Good Idea and The Slim, and If I Can't Change Your Mind is one infectious earworm. I'm still not convinced that I'm a fan of Sugar, but this album isn't too bad. It's definitely not Hüsker Dü, but I can see listening to this one again.
Good album. Early 90s alt rock. Sounded like everything the Foo Fighters wanted to be.
I’d listen to it again
Decent early 90s alternative, but not super memorable. It's still a genre I like, so gets 4 stars
Pixies-ish, very 90's
the 90s movie vibes are immaculate
По мнению А: 4/5 По мнению С: 4/5 ИТОГОВАЯ ОЦЕНКА: 4/5 (11.02.2025)
Those aggressive opening chords? Are we in heavymetalland? No, we soon recognize alternativeland. The mixture of approaches/styles is a delight and carries us. I know you know your grunge your power pop your alternative rock and recognize them here. This has them put together really well. Slick.
never even heard of this but i really enjoyed it! my kinda rock music
The most basic of 90s rock, but well done.
I actually enjoyed this more than I probably should. Brings up a lot of memories of 90s films and stuff. It's not great art, but *shrug* I like what I like.
Lost my review with a browser refresh, but I really enjoyed the feel of this album. Sort of a fusion of post-punk and shoegaze with some grunge influences. Standouts for me were A Good Idea, which sounds a lot like a Pixies song, and Slick, which was my favorite track on here. Vocals remind me a bit of Alice in Chains with the drawly delivery -- love the sludginess of it. I'll be back for repeated listens. Coming in at a low 4 for me.
Really good album! While I find it hard to believe it took so long for a band to take the name “Sugar”, I was even more surprised by how good this album is. Having just listened to it, I am torn between a 4 or a 5. Luckily I have until tomorrow before I have to make a decision. I think my favorite song was the opening track “The Act We Act”. The whole album is of the same quality.
Today's album is by a band formed by Husker Du frontman Bob Mould. This new band is like a cross between his old sound in Husker Du mixed with like grunge or 90s alt rock. A bit heavier than standard art rock, but still deeply rooted in the 90s alternative rock sound. Not terrible. Favourite songs: Fortune Teller, The Slim, Slick, Helpless, Hoover Dam, The Act We Act Least favourite songs: A Good Idea 4/5
pretty good, bit emo
I'm hesitant to claim that Sugar is my favorite Bob Mould project, as I need to properly return to Hüsker Dü's catalog. However, this album in particular has always been very much up my alley, and may ultimately be my favorite of his. 4/5
I love this collection of songs. There was this interesting sub-genre in the early 90s of bands using the same wall-of-pedal-overdriven-guitars sound as the Seattleites, but writing poppy but radio-unfriendly songs. In addition to this great album, Ted Leo (in both Chisel and with the Pharmacists) and Teenage Fanclub come to mind. They've been all but lost as Grunge and bad radio pop has sucked up all of the culture's memory of that moment. But they deserve to be listened to because they are fantastic.
Didn't thought this album would be such a blast of energy and good melodies (especially since Hüsker Dü, so far, didn't gave me a lasting impression) but damn, Mould and Co. really delivered with this one!
Completely new band and album to me. Overall pleasantly surprised, although not mind blown. Standout Tracks: - Hoover Dam - If I Can't Change Your Mind
YES! I love it when this generator gives me albums i already love. I celebrate almost all of Bob Mould's entire catalog. Bob Mould also did The Daily Show theme
Sugar was a band formed by Bob Mould, singer and guitarist that originally found fame as the frontman for the punk band Husker Du. In that band, Mould's solid, earnest vocals and guitar riffs helped define 80s punk, and his songwriting made the band's work memorable. After that band broke up, Mould released a pair of solo albums which were closer to folk than his earlier work. Sugar marked Mould's return to an edgy, driven sound. The band's debut, Copper Blue, is filled with songs that are more melodic, better-produced versions of Husker Du songs, like "If I Can't Change Your Mind" and "Helpless."
Somewhat generic 90s alt rock, but I enjoyed it. Favorite tracks: A Good Idea, Hoover Dam, The Slim, Slick, Man on the Moon.
literally sweet
Nice!
Sometimes you feel like a real dummy. When I was in sixth grade, “dark side of the moon” was probably my favorite album. Did I explore any more of Pink Floyd’s catalog? No, I did not. I probably did not know a single other song they did—except the “teachers leave those kids alone” song that got radio play—until college. This has proven to be a mistake. (If you, dear reader, have not heard of this obscure art-rock band called “Pink Floyd,” you should change that.) So it is here. I love Bob Mould’s solo stuff (especially the sunshine rock album). I don’t love Husker Du, exactly, but it’s fine enough. Did I ever ask, “hey did Bob Mould do anything for the, like, 20 years in between those projects?” Nope! Stupid. Dumb. [insert saved by the bell gif]. “Did Bob Mould, grunge grandfather, play music in the 90s, the grunge golden age?” What an obvious question to ask, he said, wondering why he never asked it. Anyway, I loved this from the first minute, obviously. I was singing along to helpless the first time I heard it; that’s undeniably catchy. This is like pure nostalgia for an experience I never had in the 90s but, at the same time, kinda did listening to Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, etc.
I thought I had never heard of these guys, but I had heard "Helpless" and "If I Can't Change Your Mind" before. This project is turning me into a Bob Mould appreciator, I'll definitely throw this on next time I'm in a pop punk kinda mood.
Really good!
Good rock
Could be a 5?
## In-Depth Review of *Copper Blue* by Sugar Released on September 4, 1992, *Copper Blue* marks the debut studio album of the alternative rock band Sugar, led by former Hüsker Dü frontman Bob Mould. The album is widely acclaimed for its powerful blend of melodic rock and punk energy, showcasing Mould's evolution as a songwriter and musician. This review will delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence while also discussing its pros and cons. ### Lyrics The lyrics of *Copper Blue* are characterized by their emotional depth and complexity. Mould's writing often juxtaposes upbeat melodies with darker themes, creating a sense of irony that resonates throughout the album. - **Emotional Resonance**: Songs like "The Slim" tackle heavy subjects such as loss and grief, reflecting the impact of the AIDS crisis on personal relationships. The lyric "when you left with your death I felt empty" encapsulates profound sorrow and helplessness, making it one of the most poignant tracks on the album. - **Universal Themes**: Many lyrics are gender-neutral, allowing listeners to connect with the emotions regardless of their backgrounds. This approach is evident in "If I Can't Change Your Mind," which explores themes of love and longing while maintaining a relatable perspective. - **Irony and Contrast**: Tracks such as "Hoover Dam" feature upbeat instrumentals that contrast sharply with darker lyrical content. Lines like "if you've made a deal with the guy with the horns and the cape I'll see you later, babe" suggest themes of despair masked by a seemingly celebratory sound. Overall, Mould's ability to weave intricate narratives within his songs contributes significantly to the album's lasting impact. ### Music Musically, *Copper Blue* is marked by its rich textures and dynamic arrangements. The album showcases a blend of power pop and alternative rock that was influential in shaping the sound of early '90s music. - **Instrumentation**: The interplay between Mould's guitar work, David Barbe's bass lines, and Malcolm Travis's drumming creates a full-bodied sound that is both punchy and melodic. Tracks like "Changes" feature chiming guitars and glockenspiel that evoke a sense of nostalgia while maintaining an edge. - **Production Quality**: Produced by Bob Mould and Lou Giordano, the album benefits from meticulous production that enhances its sonic depth. The use of multi-tracking for vocals adds layers to Mould's singing, allowing for a more robust sound compared to his previous work with Hüsker Dü. - **Variety in Sound**: Each track offers something unique, from the driving rhythms of "Helpless" to the expansive soundscapes in "Hoover Dam." The diversity in musical styles keeps listeners engaged throughout the album. ### Production The production of *Copper Blue* is one of its standout features. Mould’s collaboration with Giordano resulted in an album that sounds polished yet retains an organic feel. - **Layered Soundscapes**: The production employs various techniques to create depth. For instance, reverse sounds and different guitar textures add complexity to tracks without overwhelming them. - **Balanced Dynamics**: The album successfully balances loud and soft passages, allowing for moments of introspection amidst energetic bursts. This dynamic range is exemplified in songs like "Slick," which starts with a quirky sound before transitioning into more aggressive sections. - **Influence of Grunge**: The production style reflects the emerging grunge sound of the early '90s, influenced by albums like Nirvana's *Nevermind*. Mould himself acknowledged this influence, stating that it opened up new avenues for his songwriting[4]. ### Themes Thematically, *Copper Blue* navigates a landscape filled with heartbreak, loss, and introspection while simultaneously celebrating resilience and hope. - **Heartbreak and Loss**: Many songs explore personal relationships strained by deception or loss. The recurring motif of emotional struggle resonates deeply throughout tracks like "The Act We Act" and "Helpless." - **Existential Reflection**: Songs such as "Hoover Dam" delve into feelings of insignificance against larger existential questions. The lyrics invite listeners to ponder their place in the world while grappling with personal demons. - **Resilience**: Despite its darker themes, there is an underlying current of resilience in tracks like "If I Can't Change Your Mind." This duality—between despair and hope—creates a rich listening experience that invites reflection. ### Influence *Coper Blue* has had a significant impact on both contemporary music and subsequent generations of artists. - **Pioneering Sound**: The album helped define the alternative rock sound that would dominate the '90s. Its blend of punk energy with melodic sensibilities influenced bands like Foo Fighters and Weezer. - **Critical Acclaim**: It has been included in numerous lists celebrating essential albums, such as *NME*’s Album of the Year in 1992. Its recognition speaks to its enduring quality and relevance in music history[4]. - **Cultural Legacy**: Mould’s work with Sugar paved the way for more introspective songwriting within rock music, encouraging artists to explore vulnerability through their lyrics. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros - **Emotional Depth**: The lyrics resonate on multiple levels, inviting listeners to engage deeply with their themes. - **Musical Diversity**: Each track offers something unique musically while maintaining cohesion as an album. - **High Production Quality**: The polished yet organic production enhances the listening experience without detracting from raw emotion. - **Influential Sound**: Helped shape alternative rock music in the '90s; its legacy continues to inspire new artists today. #### Cons - **Niche Appeal**: While critically acclaimed, some listeners may find its themes too dark or specific to resonate fully. - **Comparative Lack of Hits**: Unlike some contemporaries who produced multiple chart-topping singles, *Copper Blue* has fewer standout radio hits. - **Potential Overproduction**: Some purists might argue that certain tracks are overly polished compared to Mould’s earlier work with Hüsker Dü. ### Conclusion In conclusion, *Copper Blue* stands as a landmark achievement in Bob Mould's career and alternative rock as a whole. Its masterful blend of poignant lyrics, diverse musical styles, high production quality, and thematic richness has cemented its place in music history. While it may not appeal universally due to its darker themes or niche sound, its influence on subsequent generations remains undeniable. As both a product of its time and a timeless piece of art, *Copper Blue* continues to resonate with listeners who appreciate emotional honesty wrapped in compelling melodies.
I thought I was in for a long listen after first track, the rest I loved.
another alt rock album from a forgotten band... it's always fascinating to listen to bands that i've never heard of till now, and i was pleasantly surprised with what i heard. a very melodic and somewhat muddy rock album, when the album first started i didn't think it was anything special, but the more i listened the more i ended up tapping my foot to some of the tunes. some diamonds in the rough here.
Sugar just so happened to be what Bob Mould needed. After developing the land that future alternative rock acts would settle on with his band Hüsker Dü, Mould knew he needed a change of pace. The success of Nirvana's Nevermind and the construction of Bob's new band's Copper Blue was what resulted. Copper Blue is, perhaps, more intense and heartfelt and earnest than what the Dü had done before, which sounds like a high bar that could not be cleared but alas. The songs that make up Copper Blue, and the performances by the members involved, is a good enough indicator of what was now possible in the mainstream rock world and it was the prior efforts of the frontman that made it happen in the first place. Favorites: The Act We Act, A Good Idea, Changes, Hoover Dam, The Slim, If I Can't Change Your Mind, Fortune Teller, Slick.
One of the better offerings of that era
I'm a big fan of Hüsker Dü, so it's no shock I liked this. It's so sonically close, it feels like an extension of HD. I really like albums like this, where you can draw a straight line from hardcore punk into this softer, gentler sound. It keeps punk sensibilities while exploring a more accessible sound. The clavichord and organ on Hoover Dam give the song a huge boost. Anyone claiming these songs all sound the same probably just didn't listen close enough.
Pretty cool. Some obvious Husker vibes since Mould sang and wrote all the songs. More melodic than a lot of Husker Du songs but the songs still have hard edges. Quite enjoyable although maybe a bit dated now as it sounds very early 90s. That is a plus for me but might not work for others. Whatever, it’s all subjective.
ez actually sokkal jobban tetszik mint az előző, de azért csak majdnem ötös. :D ezt fogom még hallgatni tho 😎
good album, enjoyable Alternative rock inspired by Nevermind, but takes it in an indie direction.
A good, surprising discovery. I knew Bob Mould continued on after Hüsker Dü, but I didn't realize he had put together something that echoed his old band as much as this. The result is a nice collection of heavy power pop songs, although a bit overproduced, that bring to mind the likes of Knapsack/The Jealous Sound, Archers of Loaf, Superchunk, and Pavement. Mould has an odd knack for melody, unique tectures, and, at times, the unusual chord changes which can make the listener feel a bit uneasy. I'm here for it. Copper Blue is a bit of the forgotten gem.
Impressive
Cool, wel beetje te poppy voor mij
Pop punk before there was pop punk.
Solid stuff from the former Husker Du frontman. Nice slice of 90s alt rock with some grunge and a dash of post punk thrown in. I still wish Zen Arcade was in this book but I have no problem with this and I will listen again.
Hey look, it's Smashmouth before Smashmouth! Haha, because I know Smashmouth so much more, this felt derivative, but I think Smashmouth is the derivative one. Anyway, this was an enjoyable listen.
This was great! Awesome alternative rock album. Its right up my alley. Not perfection but I really enjoyed it.
I went on a huge 90's power pop kick within the last year and there's just something about the cheeriness and the focus on melodic hooks that I can't get enough of. Fountains of Wayne, Jellyfish, Matthew Sweet, etc., all of these artists were commonly in rotation. Sugar was among those too, but something was slightly different about them. I was wowed by the explosion of sound I was hearing, especially in their debut album "Copper Blue". Not to say it was anything like Phil Spector's "Wall of Sound", but the thick & vibrant guitar riffs mixed with frontman Bob Mould's baritone and sort of nasally vocals leading the melodies kind of did it for me. Some of the tracks on "Copper Blue" sound like they drag on a bit, but otherwise the middle of this album is really strong. There are some absolute earworms here too, which is the point of power pop. This wave of power pop kind of briefly came in and out of the spotlight, but it no doubt paved the way for pop-punk to emerge later, which is another one of my favorite genres. For that, I am grateful to these power pop acts such as Sugar & others. Who knew that songs based around yearning & despair would be so damn catchy?
One of Husker Du's great failings, particularly in the last two albums, was the awful production. No bass and biscuit tin drums. Here that is rectified in 12 short sharp Bob Mould tracks expertly produced and played. Different from Husker Du - no Grant Hart, but one of my favourite albums in his canon. Sounds like he went straight from Warehouse.. to this, but he snuck in two solo albums first. Wish I'd have seen either the Du or Sugar, one of my biggest live gaps.
I thought this was going to be one of the best albums I’d ever heard from a band I’d never heard anything of but then “if I can’t change your mind” came on and it all made sense.
This sounded like a Foo fighters album.
This was surprisingly good
Bob Mould is a favorite of 91X's Resurrection Sunday. Helpless sounds a lot like their big hit, If I can't change your mind. Decent album with a log to good guitar riffs.
This was a pretty cool surprise. I was a Husker Du and Bob Mould fan in college, but lost track of him after workbook. This is the same echo vocally vibe of husker du, with a bit cleaner and more consistently melodic approach. Really enjoyed Hoover Dam and Slim.
sounds great if you like rock
Feels like the filler soundtrack to a lot of 90s buddy comedies. I was hoping for a single or two, but I like what they're doing. Surprised they didn't go further.
Wonderful melodies and hooks. Dense sound. Close to full marks indeed.
Following the dissolution of the incredible punk/alt-rock group Husker Du, frontman Bob Mould decided to push into power pop with his brand new '90s group Sugar. Copper Blue maintains a certain edge the runs through a lot of '90s alt rock inspired by the grunge movement at the time, but Mould has a certain knack for great pop hooks similar to REM. Most notable is the mix, which cranks the reverb for a naturally noisy record that drowns out a lot of the vocals. I think this is a great thing though, as the vocals naturally swim in much of the guitar-centered hooks and accented by the big rock drums. I'll concede that REM are generally better songwriters at this sort of music, but I consistently enjoyed Copper Blue more than any REM album. Additionally, I just like how Copper Blue sounds more. Frankly, this is the ideal power pop album. More people should listen to Sugar.
Strong 4.5. Slightly slipped at the end
Really unexpectedly good
I like this album, even if there’s nothing spectacular here. Some cool riffs here, nice harmonies there, all in all quite solid songcrafting. It suffers a little under lack of catchiness and some songs drone on too long, but it’s enough for a 7/10, aka 4 stars. Best songs: The Act We Act and Hoover Dam
Interessante, bello rock.
🙃
Bob Mould is a cool dude and this record rocks. But I still like Hüsker Dü more.
Nije husker du, ali je super
Grungy, I like it. Almost a proto Weezer
Enjoyable early 90’s rock that didn’t reach the charts so much
About time this list includes brilliant short-lived groups. Hard to believe this was freshman effort by the trio. There was a lot of energy in the 'college' scene in '80s and early '90s.