Soundgarden – Superunknown 2LP

Soundgarden – Superunknown 2LP

Double Vinyl LP • 15 Tracks • Original Album 1994 • Grunge / Alternative Rock / Hard Rock / Heavy Metal

Available at Bennies Fifties and the online Fifties Store

Superunknown is the fourth studio album by American rock band Soundgarden and is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential rock albums of the 1990s. Originally released on March 8, 1994, through A&M Records, the album marked the band's definitive international breakthrough.

Combining grunge, alternative rock, hard rock, psychedelic influences and heavy metal, Superunknown remains a masterpiece from the golden era of Seattle's rock scene.

This double vinyl LP edition features the complete original album, with fifteen tracks spread across four sides. The 2LP format provides a fitting presentation for the massive guitar riffs, complex arrangements and extraordinary vocal performances that define this classic recording.

Formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1984, Soundgarden became one of the leading bands of the grunge movement alongside Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Alice In Chains.

However, Soundgarden always maintained a distinctive musical identity. While many grunge bands drew primarily from punk and alternative rock, Soundgarden combined those influences with the heavy riffs of Black Sabbath, the dynamics of classic hard rock and unusual time signatures.

The band's line-up during the recording of Superunknown consisted of Chris Cornell on vocals and guitar, Kim Thayil on guitar, Ben Shepherd on bass and Matt Cameron on drums.

Chris Cornell's extraordinary voice is central to the album's appeal. His remarkable vocal range, powerful delivery and emotional intensity make Superunknown one of the most impressive rock recordings of its generation.

Produced by Michael Beinhorn and Soundgarden, the album was recorded during the second half of 1993. The production combines massive, heavy guitars with subtle psychedelic details, creating a sound that is both powerful and remarkably layered.

One of the defining rock albums of the 1990s

Superunknown reached number one on the US Billboard 200 and became a major international success. The album produced several hit singles and earned multiple awards, including two Grammy Awards for Black Hole Sun and Spoonman.

The record opens with Let Me Drown, a powerful rock song that immediately establishes Soundgarden's heavy and dynamic sound. Its combination of driving riffs, energetic rhythms and Cornell's unmistakable vocals makes for an impressive introduction.

My Wave is one of the album's most energetic performances. Its unusual rhythmic structure and infectious melody demonstrate Soundgarden's ability to combine complex musical ideas with accessible rock songwriting.

Fell On Black Days remains one of the band's most beloved songs. Its dark atmosphere and introspective lyrics explore feelings of alienation and emotional struggle. The restrained yet powerful performance makes it one of the album's defining moments.

With Mailman and Superunknown, the band explores its more experimental side, combining heavy, almost hypnotic guitar arrangements with unexpected rhythmic changes.

One of the album's most famous songs is, of course, Black Hole Sun. This worldwide rock classic combines a dreamlike, psychedelic atmosphere with an unforgettable melody. It became Soundgarden's signature song and, helped by its distinctive music video, one of the most iconic rock hits of the 1990s.

Spoonman is another major highlight. Inspired by Seattle street performer Artis the Spoonman, who actually performs on the recording, the song combines powerful guitar riffs with unusual rhythms and distinctive percussion.

The Day I Tried To Live is one of the album's most impressive compositions. Its contrast between dark verses and an explosive chorus highlights the emotional strength of Chris Cornell's voice.

Kickstand and Fresh Tendrils further demonstrate the band's versatility, moving from short, aggressive rock to complex, atmospheric arrangements.

4th Of July is among the heaviest songs Soundgarden ever recorded. Its slow, menacing riffs and psychedelic atmosphere give the track an almost doom-metal character.

With Half, Soundgarden takes a more experimental direction. Written and sung by bassist Ben Shepherd, the song features unusual instrumental textures that distinguish it from the rest of the album.

Like Suicide provides a magnificent conclusion. Its gradual build-up, melancholy atmosphere and powerful climax reveal the full musical and emotional range of Soundgarden.

An essential album for every rock collection

Superunknown is far more than a collection of successful singles. It is a cohesive album that brings together heavy rock, psychedelic experimentation, emotional songwriting and exceptional musicianship.

Its influence can still be heard in countless modern rock and metal bands. The album also represents one of the greatest artistic achievements of Chris Cornell's career.

For fans of Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, Black Sabbath and 1990s alternative rock, Superunknown is an absolute must-have.

This double vinyl LP is a wonderful way to experience all fifteen tracks from one of the most legendary rock albums of the 1990s.

Tracklist

LP 1 – Side A

Let Me Drown

My Wave

Fell On Black Days

Mailman

LP 1 – Side B

Superunknown

Head Down

Black Hole Sun

Spoonman

LP 2 – Side C

Limo Wreck

The Day I Tried To Live

Kickstand

Fresh Tendrils

LP 2 – Side D

4th Of July

Half

Like Suicide

Specifications

Artist: Soundgarden

Title: Superunknown

Format: 2LP

Number of records: 2

Number of tracks: 15

Original album year: 1994

Original release date: March 8, 1994

Original label: A&M Records

Genre: Grunge / Alternative Rock / Hard Rock / Heavy Metal / Psychedelic Rock

Country of origin: United States

Vocals and guitar: Chris Cornell

Guitar: Kim Thayil

Bass guitar: Ben Shepherd

Drums: Matt Cameron

Production: Michael Beinhorn and Soundgarden

Recording period: 1993

Recording location: Including Bad Animals Studio, Seattle

Album type: Studio album

Vinyl edition: Double LP with four sides

Notable songs: Black Hole Sun, Spoonman, Fell On Black Days, The Day I Tried To Live and My Wave

Special features: Soundgarden's fourth studio album and their biggest commercial success

Highlights

The legendary fourth studio album by Soundgarden

One of the defining grunge albums of the 1990s

The complete album on 2LP

Includes the worldwide hit Black Hole Sun

Featuring Grammy-winning classic Spoonman

Also includes Fell On Black Days and The Day I Tried To Live

Contains the powerful My Wave

Featuring the heavy fan favourite 4th Of July

The extraordinary vocals of Chris Cornell

With the distinctive guitar work of Kim Thayil

Originally released in 1994

An essential classic for fans of grunge, alternative rock and heavy metal