Sweet’s Stuff Is Mouthwatering, Guitar Rich Pop

The “King of Pop,” as crowned by Spin magazine, will assert his royalty at the University of Idaho’s Kibbie Dome in Moscow Monday night.

We’re not talking about the musically bloated Michael Jackson, who is often tagged with the same title.

Rather, the musical icon of concern is Matthew Sweet, who was also voted “King of Alternative Pop” by USA Today.

The 30-year-old singer-guitarist is rapidly approaching superstardom by delivering infectious, affecting, guitar-driven pop-rock songs.

As displayed on his fifth album, “100% Fun,” Sweet has an ear for mouthwatering pop, which he fuses with raucous, densely layered guitars.

On “100% Fun,” Sweet takes the listener on a sophisticated adventure into modern rock and pop. Sweet works in a generous helping of hooks and melodies to make the ride both thrilling and compelling.

Sweet gained notoriety as a promising talent with his first two albums “Inside” and “Earth.” Those made Sweet a darling of the critics, and he still is. His first commercial success came with his third album, “Girlfriend.” Its title track and “Divine Intervention” became staples on college radio and MTV’s “Buzz Bin.”

Ultimately, Sweet struck golden sales with that album. “100% Fun” recently achieved the same success.

The singer contributed songs for the soundtracks of “National Lampoon’s Senior Trip” and “Ace Ventura 2: When Nature Calls.”

Sweet’s national tour will be his last for awhile. He’s been on the road since February, headlining his own shows and opening for Soul Asylum.

MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: MATTHEW SWEET Location and time: Kibbie Dome in Moscow, Monday, 8 p.m. Tickets: $16