"A-Sides" is a compilation album by the American rock band Soundgarden, released on November 4, 1997, through A&M Records. This album encapsulates the band's extensive career, featuring tracks that highlight their evolution and impact in the rock scene. Guitarist Kim Thayil explained that the tracklist was determined through a collaborative process among band members, focusing on what they considered to be the essential A-side singles from their original run. They opted for the title A-Sides to reflect the compilation's focus on their singles rather than labeling it a "Best Of" or "Greatest Hits," which they felt were subjective terms.
The album includes the opening track "Nothing to Say," which originally appeared as a B-side to their first single "Hunted Down" in 1987, as well as the previously unreleased track "Bleed Together." Notably, "Get on the Snake," although a promo single in 1989, and various other hits from their catalog are featured. A-Sides was significant as it was Soundgarden's last release for 13 years, until the 2010 compilation Telephantasm. The album debuted at number 63 on the Billboard 200 and achieved sales of over 500,000 copies in the United States.
Critics praised A-Sides for effectively showcasing Soundgarden's range, from their early Sub Pop recordings to the more elaborate sounds of their later albums, Superunknown and Down on the Upside. AllMusic awarded it four and a half stars, highlighting the band's strength as a singles band. Entertainment Weekly also gave it an A rating, noting how it serves as a comprehensive introduction to the band's work. After the death of lead singer Chris Cornell in May 2017, A-Sides saw a resurgence, re-entering the Australian albums chart at number 47. It was also released on double green translucent vinyl for Record Store Day in 2018, appealing to both fans and collectors.
