Soundgarden emerged as a pioneering force in the Seattle grunge scene, bringing elements of heavy metal and alternative rock into what would come to be known as the Seattle sound. The group originally found lead singer and primary songwriter Chris Cornell singing from behind a drum set where he was the group's percussionist, but it became clear that this would not work well in live concerts, so Cornell switched to vocals and rhythm guitar while turning over percussion work to Matt Cameron. ...
Soundgarden emerged as a pioneering force in the Seattle grunge scene, bringing elements of heavy metal and alternative rock into what would come to be known as the Seattle sound. The group originally found lead singer and primary songwriter Chris Cornell singing from behind a drum set where he was the group's percussionist, but it became clear that this would not work well in live concerts, so Cornell switched to vocals and rhythm guitar while turning over percussion work to Matt Cameron.
Badmotorfinger, the third studio album, finds the group just before it's breakout into grunge superstardom, an event that would occur with the release of their next album. Taking its name from a spoof on a popular Montrose song, Badmotorfinger sports a strong heavy metal sound, but with tighter songwriting, and a bit of complexity in time signatures and tunings. It would become the band's highest charting album to date, peaking at number 39 on the Billboard 200 chart, and going double platinum by 1996. It was also considered a success by critics, and was nominated in 1992 for a Grammy award for Best Metal Performance.
While the album definitely has grunge elements in it, as a whole it may be considered more alternative, heavy metal, or hard rock. The band's development makes this album more difficult to pin down into a single genre, and perhaps this makes for a more interesting listening experience.
We hope you enjoy this foray into the roots of the grunge movement as Lynch brings us the album for today's podcast.
Rusty Cage
The opening track to the album was the third single released, and reflects a longing for freedom and a breaking out of the “rusty cage” that life can be. The guitars are tuned down significantly, giving the riffs a jangling sound. Johnny Cash would cover it a few years later, turning the song into a country anthem.
Outshined
This track combines themes of self-doubt and internal struggle with appearances of external success and confidence, creating a clash within the singer. Cornell creates depth and passion through his vocals. “Show me the power, child. I'd like to say that I'm down on my knees today.”
Jesus Christ Pose
Unlike many tracks, this first single released from the album is credited to all four band members. The lyrics are a rant against the hypocrisy of religious leaders who turn belief into a means of acquiring power. This track is an example of a Soundgarden song that is more metal than grunge at this point.
Slaves & Bulldozers
This song is often described as “doom metal,” and utilizes drop-tuned guitars to create a slow burn, darker sound. The lyrics encourage the listener to consider how their situation may be turning them into either an obedient slave or a nihilistic bulldozer. It was the last song Soundgarden played live before Chris Cornell's death in 2017.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the television series “The Cosby Show”
This staple of 80's sitcom had their final episode and went off the air in April 1992.
STAFF PICKS:
I Want to Touch You by Catherine Wheel
Wayne kicks off the staff picks with the Manchester sound. This post-psychedelic song deals with the raw emotions of a shy guy who is infatuated with a particular woman. “It would really make my day if you'd only move away, 'cause I'm scared that if you stay, I'll want to touch you.”
Just Take My Heart by Mr. Big
Rob brings us a power ballad that peaked at number 16. It was the fourth single from the second album by Mr. Big entitled “Lean Into It.” The song features some excellent finger picking on an electric guitar toned down to an almost acoustic consistency. Eric Martin is the lead singer and co-writer of the song.
Cold Day in Hell by Gary Moore
Bruce features a guitar virtuoso from Northern Ireland. Gary Moore got his start in an Irish band called Skid Row in the late 1960's but is better known as a member of Thin Lizzy. This lead-off track to his ninth solo studio album called “After Hours” is a straightforward announcement that the man and his lover would never be getting back together.
Silent Lucidity by Queensryche
Lynch closes out the staff picks with beautiful and epic piece off the Empire album. Chris DeGarmo, guitarist and primary songwriter for the group, was inspired to write this song after reading a book about lucid dreams. The first iteration of the song was acoustic guitar and vocals only, and instrumentation was added later.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
The Simpsons by Danny Gatton
A rock/blues guitar cover of the main theme of “The Simpsons” takes us out for today's session.
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