An Older Mould
Mould takes gentle brutality to new heights.
Bob Mould
District Line
Released on Nov 30, -0001
"Return to form" is a handy term that's bandied about by people like us, but it's hard to say such things when it comes to Bob Mould. He's taken on so many different versions of his frantic self, the outside listener would not understand. Diehard Mould fans know of a man who's written songs that seep in and become part of your make up. He's made people want to pick up a guitar, punch a hole trough a wall, wear ear plugs and even come out of the closet.
District Line is his new album on Anti Records, and it's his most solid collection of songs since Sugar's Copper Blue. As Mould ages it seems his knack for quiet ferocity increases with each release. The days of Husker Du (drinking, drugging, ear bleed volume) are now behind him as he continues his journey to turn anger inwards.
Mould exhibits this ideal on "Again and Again." It's a somber ballad fit for inclusion on his first solo album, Workbook. "The Silence Between Us" and "Very Temporary" recall Copper Blue's ability to stick in the listener's head for weeks on end. Opening track "Stupid Now" is another reminder from Bob that there really is a reason he suffers from tinnitus. It's the albums most heartfelt yet perfect combination of the sound that Mould has been chasing for the past 20 years. Mixing elements of electronic ambience, blistering guitars and the very capable drumming of Fugazi's Brendan Canty, "Stupid Now" welcomes back the stray Mould fans of yesteryear with open arms.
District Line is Bob Mould doing what he does best. Writing very personal songs of love and loss, but at the same time showing a younger generation that turning anger inward can produce genuine results.
High Point: "Stupid Now" is fist pumping soul searching at its finest.
Low Point: "Shelter Me" is a mis-guided techno mess.
Quick Point: Mould should expect a higher attendance during his current tour.
High Point
Low Point
Posted by Joe Roth on Mar 06, 2008 @ 12:00 am