These are the Life and Times
by Greg Ragland
Fans of musical artists such as Green Day, Nirvana and the Foo Fighters know that these acts were all influenced in part by Hüsker Dü. For those who are not as into the Early to mid 80s band, Hüsker Dü was an “Underground” Rock band that began life as a Punk act.
Bob Mould, one of the founders of Hüsker Dü, is the only one of the band that has seriously pursued music since the breakup of the group. With a slew of solo works under his belt, Mould has taken a journey through various sounds, even going so far as to touch the Electronica, Dance and even”‘Atmospheric” sounds. With Life and Times, his 9th solo effort, Mould has made yet another transition, but this time back to a kinder, gentler sound – if not in his Lyrics.
From the opening track which shares the name of the Album, Life and Times takes you on a journey that evokes thoughts about relationships and their fragile nature. While the title of the album may sound as if this is a set of personal memories, it’s clear that the songs it contains are all more akin to things that can and have happened to any one of us.
Particularly enticing (and disturbing) is track 8, “Spiraling Down”. While the music is peppy and inviting, the lyrics bring to mind the situation of a relationship where communication has died, and things are indeed spiraling out of control. However, the most indicative and appealing song is track 9, “I’m Sorry, Baby, But You Can’t Stand In My Light Any More.” The reasons is simple – the angst in this song is a perfect counterpoint to the mockingly whimsical title.
Released in April of 2009, Life and Times is a solid album that fits in the collection of those who like music about relationships, or anyone who enjoys the unassuming, crisp sound of “Alternative” Rock. You can purchase and enjoy this Album immediately at www.kungfunation.com.
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