Since We've Become Translucent

After decamping to Reprise for most of the '90s, Mudhoney returned to their original home, Sub Pop, for 2002’s Since We’ve become Translucent. The album is a homecoming in more ways than one. They worked with three producers at three Seattle studios: Scott Colburn at Gravelvoice, Johnny Sangster at Egg, and Martin Feveyear at Jupiter. Even as they returned home, Mudhoney were obviously determined to evolve in the new millennium. Following the departure of founding member Matt Lukin, they hired new bassist Guy Madison, who gives the songs a more nimble feel while retaining the bludgeoning conviction that is Mudhoney’s signature. The band’s love for Hawkwind is evident in “Baby, Can You Dig the Light” and “Sonic Infusion,” two long-form psychedelic rambles that bookend the album. Tinged with wailing jazz horns, the songs might turn off grunge purists, but this kind of snarly space rock has always been part of Mudhoney’s MO. In contrast, the album’s midsection is quite lean. “Dyin’ for It,” “The Straight Life,” “Take It Like a Man” and “Inside Job” deliver mean-eyed garage rock in the classic mold.