Two Voices, One Sweet Sting: Laura McCullough Steps Forward on “Sugar Twin”

NewFire Magazine January 26, 2026

With “Sugar Twin,” Laura McCullough takes a confident step into the spotlight, delivering one of the most compelling moments yet in the Goddamn Wolves catalog. While the Raleigh, North Carolina indie rock band has long been admired for its dual-vocal dynamic and sharp alternative instincts, this latest single feels like a subtle but meaningful shift—one that places McCullough’s voice, perspective, and songwriting front and center.

Goddamn Wolves have often been compared to classic alternative touchstones like Pixies, Versus, and X, and for good reason. Their music thrives on tension and contrast: sweetness rubbing against abrasion, melody shadowed by grit. Yet the band has never been content to simply echo the past. As The Big Takeover aptly noted, their sound reflects “the rock genre being polished, tweaked and brought up to sonic speed,” and “Sugar Twin” is a pristine example of that philosophy in action.

Anchored by drummer Drew Foglia’s use of the iconic Hal Blaine “Be My Baby” beat, the song immediately evokes a girl-group heartbeat—steady, romantic, and deceptively simple. From there, the track blossoms outward. Layered harmonies nod to Phil Spector’s wall-of-sound grandeur, while the guitars lean into a hazy, textural swirl reminiscent of The Jesus and Mary Chain. It’s retro in spirit but unmistakably modern in execution.

McCullough’s lead vocal is the emotional core of “Sugar Twin.” Her delivery balances vulnerability with resolve, suggesting intimacy without fragility. There’s a conversational warmth in her phrasing, yet an undercurrent of strength that keeps the song from drifting into nostalgia cosplay. Lyrically and melodically, the track feels personal without being insular—inviting listeners in rather than shutting them out.

The single also marks the first original release to feature new guitarist Jon Trexler, whose addition proves to be perfectly timed. The second guitar expands the band’s sonic depth, giving “Sugar Twin” its lush, enveloping atmosphere without sacrificing clarity. The interplay between texture and structure feels intentional and confident, as if the band has unlocked a new dimension of its sound.

Ultimately, “Sugar Twin” isn’t just another strong indie rock release—it’s a statement. It highlights Laura McCullough not only as a compelling vocalist, but as a songwriter capable of steering the band into fresh territory. Sweet, noisy, and quietly bold, the track reinforces Goddamn Wolves’ place in the present indie landscape while honoring the echoes that shaped them.