Alongside Nirvana‘s ‘Nevermind’ and Soundgarden‘s ‘Superunknown’, the second album from AliceIn Chains is widely considered one of the essential grunge masterpieces. Leaning heavily into the sludgy tones of Black Sabbath and the Melvins, the dark acid rock of The Doors, and an assortment of heavy metal influences, the Seattle group shaped one of the more atmospheric and chilling releases of their peers. Jerry Cantrell’s guitarwork is a particular highlight, all wailing solos and big riffs, supporting Layne Staley’s nihilistic vocals and sombre lyricism perfectly.
