About this album
Where they were
Released on August 27, 1991, 'Ten' was Pearl Jam's debut album, marking their introduction to the mainstream rock scene. At this point, the band had already gained some attention through their involvement in the Seattle music scene and their connection to other bands like Soundgarden and Alice in Chains. The album's release helped solidify their place in the burgeoning grunge movement alongside Nirvana and others.
Why it matters
'Ten' achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually being certified 13× Platinum by the RIAA. Its singles, particularly 'Alive' and 'Jeremy,' received significant radio play and contributed to a cultural shift towards alternative rock in the early '90s, influencing countless artists that followed.
Essential tracks
- "Alive" — The anthem of survival and resilience showcases Eddie Vedder's powerful vocal delivery and poignant storytelling, becoming a signature track for the band.
- "Jeremy" — This track addresses bullying and its tragic consequences, reflecting societal issues that resonated deeply with listeners and demonstrating the band's lyrical depth.
- "Black" — 'Black' stands out for its haunting melody and emotional weight, encapsulating themes of love and loss that have made it a fan favorite over the years.
- "Even Flow" — 'Even Flow' blends infectious riffs with vivid storytelling about homelessness, highlighting the band's ability to marry hard rock sounds with meaningful lyrics.
Release Date
August 27, 1991
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Once 3:51
- 2 Even Flow 4:53
- 3 Alive 5:41
- 4 Why Go 3:19
- 5 Black 5:43
- 6 Jeremy 5:19
- 7 Oceans 2:41
- 8 Porch 3:30
- 9 Garden 4:58
- 10 Deep 4:18
- 11 Release 5:04
- 12 Master/Slave 3:43
