I am of that age where Husker Du was all a little bit early for me, completely passing me by. I was more interested in flicking sticks dunked into cowpats at my friends as apposed to angry speed core punk rock. This means that the incarnation of Bob Mould I can best relate to is Sugar, his rather wonderful band from the early 90’s. They were responsible for an album that truly left me with my mouth wide open in staggered disbelief, 1993’s Beaster. Whilst it now sounds sonically less powerful in the crunchy days we are living in (and crying out for a swift re-mastering), it proved how rich a palette Mould could draw from and how blessed he was in the ideas department. Which leads us nicely into District Line, the latest in a succession of solo albums.For yes, this album is crammed with ideas and different styles, from the punkier sounds of his youth to the more layered approach of Sugar. Opening track 'Stupid Now' sounds as if it were penned by someone far younger than a 47 year old veteran, a sparky burst of sound spurting us into the chorus where guitars buzz and singe against the rough edges. His vocal is broader and high in the mix, very prominent, as if he desires for the words to be heard amid the melodies. Every song is hook-heavy, 'Who Needs To Dream' a perfectly adequate driving slab of radio friendly rock. Throughout though, he deploys a more delicate touch than he has previously, with a more refined sound, keyboards (in particular on 'Old Highs New Lows' and the near disco 'Shelter Me') adding richness to the atmosphere.Some songs though are just a little bit too slow and ponderous. 'Again and Again' just drags, never hitting its stride, plodding along amidst confessional lyrics and apologises. And whilst 'Miniature Parade' tries to impress it just sounds rather repetitive and ordinary. Far better is album closer 'Walls In Time', a rambling but interesting song, sounding far more natural than the forced production evident elsewhere. Mould though shows no signs of slowing down into middle age, and displays here that he is just as capable as he ever was of delivering good songs, average songs, and a couple of great ones. 67%Links Bob Mould [official site] [myspace] [buy it]