Seminal ’90s alternative rock band Sugar, led by Bob Mould of Hüsker Dü fame, has thrilled fans by reuniting after nearly 30 years to release a brand new song, “House of Dead Memories,” and announce plans for a 2026 tour, alongside a special box set for their acclaimed debut album, Copper Blue.
The 1990s were a vibrant, often chaotic era for music, a melting pot where grunge, hip-hop, Britpop, and countless other subgenres battled for mainstream attention. Amidst this sonic explosion, many incredibly talented bands, though critically acclaimed and beloved by dedicated fan bases, never quite achieved the widespread commercial success of their contemporaries. These “underrated” acts often crafted unique sounds that defied easy categorization, leaving a lasting influence on subsequent generations even as they remained just outside the brightest spotlight. Now, after nearly three decades, one of these iconic alternative rock groups, Sugar, is making a triumphant return, igniting excitement across the fan community.
Sugar’s Enduring Legacy: A Brief History
Formed in 1992, Sugar was the brainchild of guitarist and vocalist Bob Mould, already a legendary figure from his groundbreaking work with punk and alternative pioneers Hüsker Dü. With bassist David Barbe and drummer Malcolm Travis, Mould crafted a sound that combined potent melodies with layers of distortion and emotional depth, quickly captivating the alternative rock world. Their debut album, Copper Blue, released in the same year, became an instant classic, lauded by critics and adored by fans. Its standout track, “If I Can’t Change Your Mind,” became a defining anthem of early ’90s alternative radio, showcasing Sugar’s ability to blend raw power with undeniable pop sensibility.
Despite their critical success and devoted following, Sugar disbanded in 1995 after a relatively brief but impactful run. While Bob Mould continued his prolific career as a solo artist and with other projects, the possibility of a Sugar reunion remained a cherished dream for many fans, a hope that has now, against all odds, materialized.
The Triumphant Return: New Music and Reunion Details
Breaking a silence that has lasted nearly 30 years, Sugar has officially reunited with its original lineup of Bob Mould, David Barbe, and Malcolm Travis. The news, initially reported by Parade on AOL.com, sent waves of excitement through the alternative music community. The band has released a brand new song titled “House of Dead Memories,” a track that instantly transports listeners back to the distinctive, powerful sound that defined their earlier work. Fans have reacted with overwhelming enthusiasm, praising both the quality of the new music and the nostalgic visuals of its accompanying video, which harken back to Sugar’s formative years.
Comments from long-time supporters highlight the enduring appeal of the band and Bob Mould’s consistent artistry:
- “It’s hard to believe there’s so much rock and roll in one man.”
- “Great song, that’s what I needed on a grey day in October 2025. Reminds me of a mixtape I got in the early ’90s… I love the new song. Thank you.”
- “Cannot thank Bob, David, and Malcolm enough for getting back together! Please tour everywhere so we don’t miss out.”
Celebrating Copper Blue: A Limited-Edition Box Set and Future Tour
The reunion isn’t just about new music; it’s also a celebration of their foundational work. Sugar has announced a limited-edition box set of their debut album, Copper Blue, set to be released on November 28. This comprehensive collection will feature the album’s four seminal singles—”Changes,” “Helpless,” “A Good Idea,” and “If I Can’t Change Your Mind”—along with live tracks and UK versions of fan favorites. This release offers both new listeners and dedicated fans a deeper dive into the album that solidified Sugar’s place in alternative rock history.
Adding to the excitement, the band has confirmed that a 2026 tour is officially in the works, promising fans the opportunity to experience Sugar’s powerful live performance once again. Bassist David Barbe expressed his anticipation in an interview with Louder Sound, stating, “When the subject of Sugar comes up, it is like a misty legend that they either remember from a long time ago or have only heard about. I am excited for fans to experience it in the real. I am really looking forward to these shows. It will all get real when I feel Bob’s amp shaking my pants legs again.”
The Wider Context: The Enduring Charm of Underrated ’90s Bands
The reunion of Sugar also serves as a poignant reminder of the many other “underrated” bands from the ’90s who crafted exceptional music but perhaps didn’t receive their full due in the mainstream. The decade was a competitive landscape, with genres like grunge, pop-punk, and hip-hop dominating charts and airwaves. Bands that blended genres or maintained a fiercely independent spirit often found themselves thriving in niche communities and college radio circuits, building cult followings that endure to this day.
Examples from the era include:
- Living Colour, a multi-Grammy-winning act whose innovative funk-metal sound, while initially successful, struggled for mainstream notoriety against the rising tide of grunge and hip-hop in the ’90s, despite releasing acclaimed albums like Time’s Up and Stain.
- Morphine, the unique Boston trio known for its dark, sexy jazz-rock sound, led by the late Mark Sandman, whose distinctive two-string bass created an unforgettable sonic landscape.
- Fountains of Wayne, recognized for their brilliant alt-power-pop songwriting, particularly on albums like Utopia Parkway, proving there was more to them than their later 2000s hit.
- Rancid, influential East Bay ska-punks who, despite a strong output of raw, powerful music, never quite reached the mainstream heights of bands like Green Day.
These bands, much like Sugar, represent the rich tapestry of ’90s music that rewards deeper exploration beyond the most commercially successful acts. Their influence continues to resonate, shaping the sounds of contemporary artists and reminding fans of a time when musical innovation flourished in myriad forms.
A Resurgent Legacy for ’90s Alt-Rock
The return of Sugar is more than just a reunion; it’s a testament to the enduring power of their music and the deep connection they forged with their fan base. For those who cherished Copper Blue and the band’s distinctive sound, this comeback offers a rare opportunity to relive cherished memories and create new ones. As Bob Mould, David Barbe, and Malcolm Travis embark on this new chapter, they not only reignite their own legacy but also shine a light once again on the profound and diverse musical landscape of the 1990s.
