Here We Go Crazy
BMG, 2025
10/10
It’s been a busy half decade since Bob Mould’s last album, and this new batch of songs again recruits the rhythm section of Jason Narducy and Jon Wurster, who help illuminate an often heavier version of Mould than we’ve heard in a while.
The atmospheric title track leads, where Mould’s familiar voice sweeps in like an old friend offering advice alongside swirling melodies, and the furious energy of “Neanderthal” follows with Wurster’s hard hitting drums that suit the driving pace that will bring to mind Hüsker Dü.
Moving into the middle, Mould’s buzzing guitar and Narducy’s skilled bass make for both grit and melody across “Hard To Get”, while “Fur Mink Augurs” has some of the most fierce singing from Mould, though the meticulous rhythm section sure is memorable, too.
Arriving close to the end, the alt-rock spirit of “You Need To Shine” seems like it could be a Sugar outtake, and “Your Side” exits with a pretty intimacy that’s poetic before building into a soaring and charged rocker.
All the hallmarks of a Mould record are present here, i.e. self-reflection and wise wordplay surrounded by harmonic punk and rock dynamics. The Trail Of Rage And Melody is still very much alive and highly appreciated by the aging punks among us.
Travels well with: Bob Mould- Blue Hearts; Bob Mould- Sunshine Rock