The Sugarcubes - Life's Too Good (LP)

**Album Review: The Sugarcubes - Life's Too Good**

The Sugarcubes' debut album, "Life's Too Good," released in April 1988, is a landmark record that introduced the world to the unique sound of this Icelandic band and the distinctive voice of Björk Guðmundsdóttir. The album is a vibrant mix of post-punk, alternative rock, and new wave, characterized by its quirky lyrics, eclectic instrumentation, and the dynamic interplay between Björk's ethereal vocals and Einar Örn Benediktsson's spoken-word contributions.

"Life's Too Good" was a commercial and critical success, marking a significant moment in the late 1980s music scene. It was the first Icelandic album to gain international recognition, paving the way for other Icelandic artists and establishing The Sugarcubes as a pioneering force in alternative music.

The album opens with "Traitor," a track that immediately sets the tone with its driving rhythm and Björk's powerful voice. The song's energy is infectious, and it showcases the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with an avant-garde edge. This is followed by "Motorcrash," a song that combines playful lyrics with a fast-paced, punk-inspired sound.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Birthday," which became The Sugarcubes' most famous song. "Birthday" is a hauntingly beautiful track that highlights Björk's vocal range and emotional depth. The song's ethereal quality and unconventional structure captivated listeners and critics alike, earning it a place on many "best of" lists for the decade.

"Delicious Demon" is another highlight, featuring a catchy chorus and a playful back-and-forth between Björk and Einar. The song's upbeat tempo and quirky lyrics make it a memorable part of the album. Similarly, "Mama" showcases the band's ability to create a rich, textured sound, with layers of guitar and synths complementing the vocal performances.

The album's production, handled by Derek Birkett and Ray Shulman, is crisp and clear, allowing the band's unique sound to shine through. The use of unconventional instruments and sounds adds to the album's distinctiveness, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and otherworldly.

Lyrically, "Life's Too Good" is a mix of surreal imagery and everyday observations, often delivered with a sense of humor and irony. The lyrics, primarily written by the band members, reflect their Icelandic roots and offer a glimpse into their unique worldview.

The Sugarcubes' lineup for this album included Björk on vocals, Einar Örn Benediktsson on vocals and trumpet, Þór Eldon on guitar, Bragi Ólafsson on bass, Sigtryggur Baldursson on drums, and Einar Melax on keyboards. This combination of talents resulted in a cohesive yet diverse sound that set the band apart from their contemporaries.

"Life's Too Good" received widespread acclaim upon its release, with critics praising its originality and the band's ability to blend different musical styles. The album's success helped to establish The Sugarcubes as a major influence in the alternative music scene and set the stage for Björk's subsequent solo career.

In conclusion, "Life's Too Good" is a groundbreaking album that remains a vital part of the alternative music canon. Its innovative sound, memorable songs, and the introduction of Björk's extraordinary talent make it a must-listen for fans of the genre. The Sugarcubes' debut is a testament to the power of creativity and the ability of music to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.