Soundgarden - Down On The Upside (2LP)

"Down on the Upside" by Soundgarden is an album that often doesn't get the spotlight it deserves, especially when stacked against the monumental success of its predecessor, "Superunknown." Released on May 21, 1996, this album showcases a band that was at the peak of its creative powers yet teetering on the edge of its eventual breakup, which would come just a year later in 1997.

What sets "Down on the Upside" apart is its raw, almost experimental approach to grunge. Soundgarden decided to self-produce this album, which allowed them to explore and diversify their sound without external influences. This choice led to a mix of heavy, guitar-driven tracks and more melodic, even acoustic pieces that showed a different side of the band. The result is a rich, textured album that feels deeply personal and introspective.

The opening track, "Pretty Noose," immediately grabs your attention. It became one of the album's most successful singles and is a perfect example of the band's tight musicianship and Chris Cornell's incredible vocal range. The song's dark, compelling lyrics paired with its catchy riff make it a standout track and a fan favorite. It also received significant airplay on radio and MTV, contributing to the album's initial commercial success.

Another highlight is "Blow Up the Outside World," which features an introspective Cornell wrestling with feelings of isolation and disillusionment. The song's moody, introspective lyrics paired with its powerful, grunge-heavy sound encapsulate what many fans love about Soundgarden. It's a track that manages to be both haunting and beautiful, showcasing Cornell's songwriting prowess.

"Burden in My Hand" is yet another gem, offering a more acoustic and melodic sound that contrasts with the heavier tracks. This song further demonstrates the band's versatility and ability to craft songs that stick with you long after the album ends. It topped the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, underscoring the band's ability to connect with a wide audience.

Critically, "Down on the Upside" was well-received, though it did spark some debate among fans and critics alike due to its departure from the heavier sound of "Superunknown." Publications like Rolling Stone and AllMusic praised the album for its experimentation and depth, noting that it showcased a band that was not afraid to evolve and challenge the boundaries of the grunge genre.

Despite its successes, the album also marked a period of tension within the band, primarily due to differing creative directions and the pressures of fame. These tensions would eventually lead to Soundgarden's breakup in 1997, making "Down on the Upside" the last studio album they would release before their initial split.

In terms of production, the decision to self-produce allowed for a more organic sound, devoid of the sometimes over-polished feel that external producers can bring. This choice likely contributed to the album's unique sound but also to the internal disagreements about the direction Soundgarden was taking.

"Down on the Upside" is an album that deserves a deep dive not just for its place in the grunge movement but for its demonstration of a band in transition. It captures Soundgarden as they wrestled with their identity and future, producing a work that is as complex and conflicted as it is compelling. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, this album offers a nuanced look at one of the 90s' most influential bands at a pivotal moment in their career.