About this album
Where they were
Released on March 26, 1996, 'Tiny Music... Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop' was Stone Temple Pilots’ third studio album, following their commercially successful 'Purple' (1994). At this point in their career, the band was seeking to evolve their sound away from the grunge label while experimenting with more eclectic influences and ambitious songwriting.
Why it matters
The album debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 chart and solidified the band's status in a post-grunge era. It received mixed reviews but has since been recognized for its bold departure from traditional grunge sounds, influencing subsequent alternative rock acts with its diverse sonic palette.
Essential tracks
- "Big Bang Baby" — This track encapsulates the album's vibrant energy, featuring punchy instrumentation and an infectious chorus that showcases the band's shift towards a more pop-oriented sound.
- "Lady Picture Show" — With its haunting melodies and lyrical depth, this song stands out as a reflection on beauty and vulnerability, highlighting Scott Weiland's vocal prowess.
- "Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart" — This single exemplifies the band's knack for combining catchy riffs with introspective lyrics, becoming one of their most recognizable tracks from the era.
- "Adhesive" — The track's atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics provide a moment of reflection within the album, showcasing the band's versatility and maturity.
Release Date
March 26, 1996
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Press Play 1:20
- 2 Pop’s Love Suicide 3:43
- 3 Tumble in the Rough 3:18
- 4 Big Bang Baby 3:23
- 5 Lady Picture Show 4:08
- 6 And So I Know 3:57
- 7 Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart 2:56
- 8 Art School Girl 3:35
- 9 Adhesive 5:34
- 10 Ride the Cliché 3:17
- 11 Daisy 2:18
- 12 Seven Caged Tigers 4:17