Soundgarden Vinyl Records Lps For Sale

Check out these new and used Soundgarden vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Soundgarden vinyl collection with the essential albums Superunknown, Down On The Upside and King Animal. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from rock musicians.

Soundgarden: Unveiling the Sonic Tapestry

Early Days and Formation

Soundgarden, the iconic American rock band, emerged from the fertile grounds of Seattle’s burgeoning music scene in the late 1980s. Formed in 1984 by vocalist Chris Cornell, guitarist Kim Thayil, and bassist Hiro Yamamoto, the band’s early lineup was completed with the addition of drummer Scott Sundquist. The name “Soundgarden” was inspired by a pipe sculpture in Seattle’s Sand Point, a reflection of the band’s desire to create a unique auditory experience.

The Core Sound: Grunge and Beyond

Ultramega OK (1988)

Soundgarden’s debut album, “Ultramega OK,” marked the band’s entry into the music scene. Released in 1988, it showcased the raw, gritty sound that would become synonymous with the grunge movement. With tracks like “Flower” and “All Your Lies,” the album laid the groundwork for the band’s distinctive blend of heavy metal and alternative rock.

Louder Than Love (1989)

The sophomore release, “Louder Than Love,” dropped in 1989 and signaled Soundgarden’s evolution. With the inclusion of bassist Jason Everman, the album delivered a heavier, more expansive sound. Tracks like “Hands All Over” and “Loud Love” demonstrated the band’s increasing prowess in crafting intricate, layered compositions.

Grunge Ascendancy: Breaking into the Mainstream

Badmotorfinger (1991)

Soundgarden’s breakthrough came with the release of “Badmotorfinger” in 1991, solidifying their place in the grunge movement alongside bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. The album’s intricate guitar work, exemplified in tracks like “Rusty Cage” and “Outshined,” showcased Kim Thayil’s masterful riffing and Chris Cornell’s powerhouse vocals.

Superunknown (1994)

Arguably Soundgarden’s magnum opus, “Superunknown” catapulted the band to international fame. Released in 1994, the album’s diverse tracks, including the Grammy Award-winning “Black Hole Sun,” demonstrated the band’s ability to seamlessly blend heavy, psychedelic, and melodic elements. “Superunknown” remains a landmark in the grunge genre and a testament to Soundgarden’s musical versatility.

The Breakup and Reunion

Down on the Upside (1996)

Soundgarden’s fifth studio album, “Down on the Upside,” released in 1996, marked a departure from their earlier sound. While still maintaining a heavy core, the album explored more experimental and acoustic elements. Tracks like “Burden in My Hand” showcased the band’s willingness to push boundaries. However, internal tensions led to the band’s dissolution in 1997, leaving fans in anticipation of a reunion.

Influence and Legacy

Soundgarden’s impact on the music landscape extends far beyond their initial era. The band’s fusion of heavy metal and alternative rock paved the way for a new wave of musicians. Among the bands that drew inspiration from Soundgarden’s sonic palette are Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots, and Bush. These bands incorporated elements of grunge into their own sound, contributing to the genre’s enduring legacy.

Chris Cornell: A Voice Remembered

The late Chris Cornell’s vocals were the heart and soul of Soundgarden. His distinctive voice, ranging from soulful croons to powerful wails, left an indelible mark on the band’s identity. Cornell’s solo career and collaborations with other artists, including Audioslave, further showcased his versatility as a vocalist and songwriter.

Exploring Soundgarden’s Albums

• Screaming Life/Fopp (1990) – This compilation album features early EPs “Screaming Life” and “Fopp,” offering a glimpse into Soundgarden’s formative years. Tracks like “Hunted Down” and “Kingdom of Come” showcase the band’s evolving style.
• King Animal (2012) – Soundgarden’s reunion in 2010 led to the release of “King Animal” in 2012. The album retained the band’s signature sound while exploring new sonic territories. Tracks like “Been Away Too Long” and “By Crooked Steps” reaffirm Soundgarden’s enduring relevance.

Bands with a Similar Sound

• Alice in Chains – Known for their heavy sound and distinct vocal harmonies, Alice in Chains shares similarities with Soundgarden, particularly in their exploration of dark, introspective themes.
• Stone Temple Pilots – Drawing influence from grunge and alternative rock, Stone Temple Pilots’ dynamic sound and Scott Weiland’s emotive vocals parallel Soundgarden’s impact on the 1990s music scene.
• Pearl Jam – As pioneers of the grunge movement alongside Soundgarden, Pearl Jam’s dynamic compositions and Eddie Vedder’s emotive vocals resonate with the sonic landscape carved out by their contemporaries.

Soundgarden’s Enduring Impact

Soundgarden’s influence transcends the grunge era, resonating with a diverse array of musicians across genres. Their ability to seamlessly blend heavy instrumentation with intricate melodies has left an indelible mark on rock music. From the gritty streets of Seattle to global arenas, Soundgarden’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of their sonic tapestry.

A Lasting Resonance: The Legacy of Soundgarden

As we reflect on Soundgarden’s discography and their profound impact on the music world, it becomes evident that their legacy endures. The band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their core sound sets them apart. Soundgarden’s journey, marked by highs and lows, captures the essence of an era and continues to inspire generations of musicians pushing the boundaries of sound and expression.