Copper Blue

AMAZON
Bob Mould realised his career goal–a rock & roll trio like Hüsker Dü, only without another strong personality to compete with him–most completely with Sugar’s 1992 debut. It’s mixed strangely, with little bass and lots of treble, but that gives it a buzzing power, especially on heavy-guitar songs like “Hoover Dam” and “If I Can’t Change Your Mind.” By the end of “A Good Idea”, the narrator inexplicably drowns the woman he loves and Mould’s voice assumes a frightening monotone. The only real relief from Copper Blue’s intensity is the constant flood of catchy melodies. –Steve Knopper