"Live at the Paramount" is a live video and album by American rock band Nirvana, released on September 24, 2011, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their iconic album Nevermind. This performance, recorded on October 31, 1991, at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle, showcases the band just weeks after the release of Nevermind, capturing the raw energy of their rise to fame.
Notably, this show is significant as it was the only Nirvana concert filmed in 16 mm, providing a unique visual quality. The Blu-ray edition features uncompressed 48 kHz/24-bit audio, enhancing the listening experience. In addition to standalone DVD and Blu-ray formats, it was also included in a limited edition Super Deluxe box set of Nevermind, which features a CD audio version of the performance. The concert was later released on vinyl in April 2019, further solidifying its status as a cherished piece of Nirvana's legacy.
Nirvana's performance at the Paramount Theatre was a pivotal moment in their career, marking the end of the North American leg of their Nevermind tour and showcasing their rise to fame. Held on October 31, 1991, it was the largest audience they played to during this tour, with around 2,800 attendees, a significant increase from previous shows. Originally intended to feature Mudhoney as headliners, the unexpected success of Nevermind led to Nirvana taking the top spot, highlighting their rapid ascent in the music scene.
The setlist included songs from both Nevermind and their debut album Bleach, alongside fan favorites like "Aneurysm" and "Sliver." A notable highlight was their cover of "Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam" by the Vaselines, and an early version of "Rape Me." The performance was filmed by a crew hired by the band's co-manager, showcasing Nirvana's growing popularity and the industry's increasing interest in them.
Critics and friends noted that this concert symbolized "the end of an era," emphasizing Nirvana's transition into a major act. Though several songs from the Paramount show were released in various forms over the years, the full performance remained unreleased until the Live at the Paramount release in 2011, cementing its status as a crucial moment in the band's legacy.
