The Sugarcubes Members, Gear & Sound
Icelandic alternative/post-punk rock band
Members
Select a The Sugarcubes band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
The Sugarcubes were a pioneering Icelandic band that emerged in the mid-1980s, blending elements of alternative rock, new wave, and art pop into a distinctive sound. Formed in 1986, the group consisted of Björk Guðmundsdóttir (vocals), Einar Örn Benediktsson (vocals, trumpet), Þór Eldon (guitar), Bragi Ólafsson (bass), Sigtryggur Baldursson (drums), Margrét Örnólfsdóttir (keyboards), and Einar Melax (keyboards). The Sugarcubes captured international attention with their eclectic style, underpinned by Björk's unique vocal delivery and the band's knack for off-kilter melodies and rhythmic innovation. Their debut album, Life's Too Good, marked a significant moment in indie music, establishing them as the most successful Icelandic band of their time.
How to Sound Like The Sugarcubes
The Sugarcubes' sound is a vibrant mix of eccentric melodies and dynamic rhythms, creating an engaging and sometimes chaotic auditory experience. Their music often showcases a raw, unpolished edge, with Björk's vocals soaring over crunchy guitar riffs and pulsating bass lines. The use of 1979 Fender Stratocaster guitars contributed to the band's jangly, energetic sound, while the rhythmic foundation was frequently enhanced by the Roland TR-909 Rhythm Composer, adding electronic textures to their new wave influences. The band's music thrives on its contrasting dynamics—from the playful to the intense—capturing an artful and experimental spirit that sets them apart.
Discography
Get the The Sugarcubes Sound
Want to sound like The Sugarcubes? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.