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Down on the Upside

by Soundgarden

Released: May 21, 1996

Alternative rock, grunge

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Experimental Album.

The Album

Following the massive success of their previous album "Superunknown," "Down on the Upside" represented a departure from the heavy sound of its predecessor, exploring more diverse musical influences and experimental songwriting. "Down on the Upside" is the fifth studio album by American rock band Soundgarden, released in 1996. Featuring tracks such as "Pretty Noose," "Burden in My Hand," and "Blow Up the Outside World," "Down on the Upside" showcases Soundgarden's evolution as musicians, incorporating elements of alternative rock, psychedelia, and punk into their signature grunge sound.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

The album's songs are characterized by their dynamic…

The album's songs are characterized by their dynamic shifts in tempo, intricate guitar work, and Chris Cornell's powerful vocals.

With its eclectic mix of styles and diverse…

With its eclectic mix of styles and diverse songwriting, "Down on the Upside" remains a notable album in Soundgarden's discography.

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Essential Tracks

Pretty Noose

Blow Up The Outside World

Burden In My Hand

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Explore the Album

Soundgarden - Down on the Upside

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Then

Reception

Despite the mixed reception, "Down on the Upside" was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning several hit singles. "Down on the Upside" received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, with some praising the band's willingness to explore new musical territory, while others criticized the album for lacking the cohesive sound of their earlier work.

Now

Legacy

While it may not have the same impact as "Superunknown," the album showcases the band's versatility and willingness to take risks, solidifying their legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the grunge era.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Down on the Upside" is the fifth studio album by American rock band Soundgarden, released in 1996. Following the massive success of their previous album "Superunknown," "Down on the Upside" represented a departure from the heavy sound of its predecessor, exploring more diverse musical influences and experimental songwriting.

Featuring tracks such as "Pretty Noose," "Burden in My Hand," and "Blow Up the Outside World," "Down on the Upside" showcases Soundgarden's evolution as musicians, incorporating elements of alternative rock, psychedelia, and punk into their signature grunge sound. The album's songs are characterized by their dynamic shifts in tempo, intricate guitar work, and Chris Cornell's powerful vocals.

"Down on the Upside" received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, with some praising the band's willingness to explore new musical territory, while others criticized the album for lacking the cohesive sound of their earlier work. Despite the mixed reception, "Down on the Upside" was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning several hit singles.

With its eclectic mix of styles and diverse songwriting, "Down on the Upside" remains a notable album in Soundgarden's discography. While it may not have the same impact as "Superunknown," the album showcases the band's versatility and willingness to take risks, solidifying their legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the grunge era.