Alternative rock band Sugar, led by Bob Mould, has announced its return after a 31-year hiatus. The band will release new music and perform live shows in 2026. This marks their first activity since their last performance in January 1995.
The group, comprising Bob Mould, David Barbe, and Malcolm Travis, recently recorded new material. One new song, titled "House Of Dead Memories," is available now. A video featuring archival Sugar footage accompanies the track.
Key Takeaways
- Sugar returns after 31 years with new music and live shows.
- New song "House Of Dead Memories" is out now.
- Four reunion shows are planned for May 2026 in New York City and London.
- Tickets go on sale October 24, 2025.
First New Material Since 1995
Sugar's last studio recording was over three decades ago. The band's re-emergence follows weeks of speculation. Social media accounts for the group were launched last week, hinting at upcoming news.
In June, Mould, Barbe, and Travis gathered at Tiny Telephone, a recording studio located in Oakland, California. Their sessions resulted in new songs, including "House Of Dead Memories." This track showcases the band's signature sound, blending powerful instrumentation with melodic hooks.
Fact File
- Band Formed: 1992
- Original Run: 1992-1995
- Key Album: Copper Blue (1992)
- Last Performance: January 1995
- Current Return: 2025/2026
Limited Live Performances Announced
In addition to new music, Sugar has confirmed a series of limited live dates for May 2026. These will be the band's first concerts in 31 years. Fans will have the opportunity to see the original lineup perform once again.
The tour includes two shows in New York City and two in London. The New York performances are scheduled for May 2 and May 3 at Webster Hall. Subsequently, the band will travel to London for concerts on May 23 and May 24 at the Kentish Town Forum.
"SUGAR was a meteorite," stated Bob Mould regarding the band's original run. "I spent all of 1991 writing and performing new material at solo shows. David and Malcolm had never met but I was certain we three would work well together."
Ticket Information and Presales
Tickets for these highly anticipated shows will become available to the general public on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10 a.m. local time. Before the general sale, presale opportunities will be offered. These presales will begin on October 22, 2025, at 10 a.m. local time.
Band History
Sugar was formed in 1992 by Bob Mould after his influential band Hüsker Dü disbanded. The group quickly gained critical acclaim for their albums Copper Blue and Beaster. Their music was a significant part of the alternative rock movement of the early 1990s. The band's intense live performances and melodic yet powerful sound resonated with a wide audience before their split.
Band Members Reflect on the Reunion
The members of Sugar shared their thoughts on the reunion, emphasizing the band's impact and their excitement to perform again. Bob Mould reflected on the band's intense creative period and unexpected success.
Mould continued, "SUGAR was a workhorse. After weeks of rehearsal in early 1992, we spent three months recording Copper Blue and Beaster. By summer 1992, the musical climate was perfect for what we created. SUGAR was a phenomena. No one could have predicted the results. We held onto the wheel and did our best to enjoy the wild ride. SUGAR was part of a pivotal era in popular music, and a special time in my life."
David Barbe, the band's bassist, expressed enthusiasm for fans to experience Sugar's music live. He noted the band's almost legendary status since their last performances.
"Since we last played in 1995, I have worked on hundreds of records and engaged with music people all over the world," Barbe commented. "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."
Drummer Malcolm Travis also shared his long-held desire for a reunion. He highlighted the band's achievements during their initial, brief existence.
Travis added, "The return of SUGAR is a moment that I’ve been dreaming about for a very long time. What we managed to accomplish in the short span of time we were in existence still boggles my mind. There was so much packed into that period…the travel, the shows, the recordings and getting to meet so many people who loved and supported us. To get back to working together again with Bob and David is such a gift and I’m looking forward to what the future has in store for us."
"House Of Dead Memories" Video Release
The new song, "House Of Dead Memories," is accompanied by a music video. This video compiles previously unseen archival footage of Sugar, offering fans a nostalgic look back at the band's original run. The release of both the song and video signals a significant moment for fans who have waited decades for new material.
The band's return signifies a notable event in the alternative rock scene. Their influence on music in the 1990s was considerable. The upcoming shows and new music provide an opportunity for both long-time fans and new listeners to engage with their work.
Confirmed Tour Dates
- May 2, 2026: New York, NY @ Webster Hall
- May 3, 2026: New York, NY @ Webster Hall
- May 23, 2026: London, UK @ Kentish Town Forum
- May 24, 2026: London, UK @ Kentish Town Forum
The anticipation for these events is high. The band's decision to record new material indicates that this is more than just a nostalgic reunion. It suggests a renewed creative drive from Mould, Barbe, and Travis.