The National Stadium in Dublin hosted a night steeped in alternative rock history as American legends Sugar brought their Love You Even Still tour to an enthusiastic crowd. With support from J. Robbins (Jawbox).
J. Robbins opened proceedings with a stripped back 30 minute acoustic set that immediately won over the audience. Best known for his influential work in post-hardcore and indie rock circles, Robbins relied solely on voice and guitar, allowing the strength of his songwriting to shine through. His relaxed stage presence and interaction with the crowd created the perfect atmosphere for the night ahead. Though understated, the set carried real emotional weight and proved an ideal contrast to the volume and intensity that followed.
When Sugar finally took the stage, the atmosphere inside the National Stadium shifted instantly. Opening with the ferocious “The Act We Act,” the band wasted no time reminding the audience why their reputation has endured for decades. Bob Mould and company delivered a blistering hour and forty minute performance packed with melody, distortion, and relentless energy.
The 24 song setlist drew heavily from Sugar’s celebrated catalogue, with highlights including “In the Eyes of My Friends,” “Your Favorite Thing,” “Explode and Make Up,” and “Come Around.” see set-list below. Each song was greeted with huge enthusiasm. Despite the sheer noise and intensity, the band’s performance remained remarkably tight throughout, with Mould’s vocals sounding as powerful and urgent as ever.
What stood out most was the balance Sugar achieved between raw aggression and unforgettable hooks. The guitars roared, the rhythm section thundered, yet every melody landed perfectly. Rather than feeling like a nostalgia act, the performance felt alive and immediate, proving the band still has plenty to say.
By the end of the night, the National Stadium crowd had witnessed a masterclass in alternative rock from one of the genre’s most influential bands.
J. Robbins photos:
Sugar photos & set-list:
Set-list:
The Act We Act
A Good Idea
Changes
Company Book
After All the Roads Have Led to Nowhere
In the Eyes of My Friends
Hoover Dam
Where Diamonds Are Halos
Running Out of Time
Gift
Your Favorite Thing
Clownmaster
Frustration
House of Dead Memories
Long Live Love
Explode and Make Up
Can’t Help You Anymore
Anyone
Come Around
Tilted
JC Auto
Helpless
Gee Angel
If I Can’t Change Your Mind
Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic