Sugar drops new collection of singles for Record Store Day
gar releases a comprehensive collection of singles for Record Store Day
Sugar, an alternative rock band that was active from 1992 to 1995, has recently made significant waves in the music scene. Comprised of members Bob Mould, David Barbe, and Malcolm Travis, Sugar has marked their reappearance with the release of “House of Dead Memories,” an impressive new track after a three-decade hiatus. Alongside this exciting return, the band has announced upcoming live performances in London and New York City for 2026. Now, Sugar is treating fans to a special release for Record Store Day on Friday, November 28th – a four-LP set entitled “Copper Blue – The Singles Collection”, thoughtfully brought to listeners by BMG.
This collection showcases the four singles from Sugar’s debut album “Copper Blue”, namely “Changes,” “Helpless,” “A Good Idea,” and “If I Can’t Change Your Mind,” all bundled with B-sides and live recordings. The live songs were captured during a memorable performance at the Cabaret Metro in Chicago on July 22, 1992 – weaving a rich tapestry of the band’s vibrant energy and exceptional talent.
The first LP kicks off with the infectious track “Changes”, resonating with stinging guitar riffs and Mould’s powerful lead vocals, seamlessly complemented by Barbe and Travis. The disc is further enriched by the energetic beats of “Needle Hits E.,” Mould’s evocative solo rendition of “I Can’t Change Your Mind,” and the progressively intense “Try Again”, boasting a blend of acoustic and electric elements that showcase Mould’s versatility.
Shifting the focus to the second LP, “Helpless” shines with its explosive mix of vigorous guitar-led power pop, underscored by Mould’s gripping vocals. Noteworthy among the tracks included is the blistering live version of “The Act We Act”, an enthralling live performance marked by Mould’s fervent guitar work. To round off this LP, “The Slim” and “Man on the Moon” from the Cabaret Metro show are equally gripping, showcasing Sugar’s impactful presence on stage.
“A Good Idea” takes center stage on the third LP, featuring a propulsive momentum propelled by Barbe’s riveting bass and Mould’s searing guitar. The live tracks from the Cabaret Metro concert further enrich this offering with standout performances like “Where Diamonds Are Halos,” “Slick,” and an invigorating cover of The Who’s “Armenia City in the Sky.”
The final LP opens with the acclaimed track “If I Can’t Change Your Mind,” a melodic power pop gem graced by Mould’s masterful guitars and poignant vocals. “Clownmaster,” an evocative instrumental piece, showcases Mould’s dynamic guitar work. Furthermore, the live tracks “Anyone” and “Hoover Dam” from the Cabaret Metro show capture the band’s raw energy and tight musicianship, underscoring their captivating presence on stage.
With this ambitious collection, Sugar’s “Copper Blue – The Singles Collection” not only reaffirms the band’s enduring influence in the ’90s alt-rock scene but also provides a great entry point for new listeners to delve into their compelling sound. For those eagerly anticipating Sugar’s upcoming live shows in 2026, these live recordings are sure to ignite the excitement and anticipation among fans.