About this album

Sound: "Raw, heavy riffs intertwine with haunting melodies, delivering a dark exploration of pain and disillusionment."

Where they were

Released on August 21, 1990, 'Facelift' was Alice in Chains' debut album, marking their entry into the burgeoning Seattle grunge scene. At this point, the band was relatively unknown but quickly gained attention for their unique sound that blended metal and rock elements. The album established them as key players in the alternative music landscape during the early '90s.

Why it matters

'Facelift' is significant for its commercial success, notably reaching No. 42 on the Billboard 200 chart, which helped solidify the grunge movement's mainstream presence. The single 'Man in the Box' became a defining track of the era, receiving heavy rotation on radio and MTV, and it has since been regarded as one of the band's most iconic songs.

Essential tracks

  • "Man in the Box" — This track's haunting lyrics and distinctive vocal delivery encapsulate the band's dark themes while showcasing their unique sound.
  • "We Die Young" — Opening the album with aggressive energy, this track presents a raw commentary on youth and societal pressures.
  • "Love, Hate, Love" — A powerful exploration of complex emotions, this song highlights Layne Staley's vocal range and emotional depth.

Release Date

August 21, 1990

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 We Die Young 2:32
  2. 2 Man in the Box 4:46
  3. 3 Sea of Sorrow 5:49
  4. 4 Bleed the Freak 4:01
  5. 5 I Can’t Remember 3:42
  6. 6 Love, Hate, Love 6:26
  7. 7 It Ain’t Like That 4:37
  8. 8 Sunshine 4:44
  9. 9 Put You Down 3:16
  10. 10 Confusion 5:44
  11. 11 I Know Somethin (Bout You) 4:21
  12. 12 Real Thing 4:03