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An Introduction to the Music of Nirvana

Ladies and Gentlemen, let me introduce you to Nirvana. For those of you who have little knowledge of great music, this is a must-read that they can get for free on gudang lagu. How good of a band Nirvana was is a topic of hot debate among music listeners to this day. There are however some undeniable facts about the band. Nirvana is responsible for bringing the early 90’s grunge sound to the mainstream. If Nirvana had not broken the music barrier that was in place, bands such as Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam may have been nothing more than indie label all-star bands. This sound was responsible for the death of the 80’s hair metal scene. The skill and sound of Nirvana can be debated, but the fact that this band was responsible for a shift in mainstream music, and popular culture can not. If you are not familiar with Nirvana, become familiar. These songs will get you started.

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” from the album Nevermind –

This is the anthem of the 1990s. The pure power and emotion sensed in this song dare the listener not to tune in. This is the song that introduced the world to Nirvana, and the new sound labeled “grunge.”

“About A Girl” from the album Bleach –

This song, found on Nirvana’s 1989 debut album was a hint of what the band would become. This was the hidden gem of the album. A simple and very catchy song that demonstrated Cobain’s ability to write a great song with a simple verse-chorus-verse.

“Heart-Shaped Box” from the album In Utero –

Possibly Nirvana’s greatest effort. This is a strangely beautiful song that will stick with the listener for a long time. This song also seems to show the band had matured from the material released on their previous records (Bleach, Nevermind). This is the best song In Utero, and as I mentioned maybe the best song they recorded.

“All Apologies” from the album In Utero –

Another must hear a song from In Utero. This song is much more pop than rock. This is a great song that shows the side of Nirvana that was less heard. As with the majority of their songs, it is simple and very catchy.

“Oh Me” from the album Unplugged In New York –

A cover of the Meat Puppets. Hearing Nirvana unplugged is incredible. This song highlights acoustic Nirvana. The emotion heard in Kurt Cobain’s voice stands out in this song. Listening to this song you can hear something beautiful that is not found in other Nirvana songs, or in many other songs period.

These five songs should give you a glimpse into Nirvana. If you are curious as to what albums you should purchase I recommend them in this order,

1)Nevermind

The essential Nirvana album. This album was responsible for a new sound in mainstream music.

2)In Utero –

The sound of this album is a lot less produced than Nevermind, however, it has a number of great songs.

3)Unplugged In New York –

this is my personal favorite album. Listen to this for a different side of Nirvana. This includes some great covers and some incredible acoustic versions of well known Nirvana songs.

4)Nirvana –

You could simply take the easy route and pick up the greatest hits. This does feature the song “You Know Your Right” which is a must-listen.

5)Incesticide –

A collection of earlier Nirvana songs. This was released after Nevermind. The sound is a mix between Bleach and Nevermind. An interesting sound with some solid songs.

6)With the Lights Out –

A three-disc collection containing a majority of material that was unreleased. This is an incredible collection for the fan. For the new listener, it is not a priority.

7)Live from the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah –

Nowhere near as good as Nirvana’s other live album “Unplugged in New York.” Save this album for last.

Jaime London is a writer, contributor, editor and a photographer. He started his career as an editorial assistant in a publishing company in Chicago in 2009.