Screaming Life/Fopp cover

Screaming Life/Fopp

Soundgarden

Album 1990

About this album

Sound: "Raw, gritty guitars and powerful vocals create a relentless exploration of emotional turmoil and existential dread."

Where they were

By the time 'Screaming Life/Fopp' was released in January 1990, Soundgarden had already begun to carve out their niche within the burgeoning Seattle grunge scene. This compilation features their earlier EP 'Screaming Life' and the follow-up 'Fopp', showcasing their evolution from underground staples to pioneers of alternative metal.

Why it matters

This album is significant as it helped solidify Soundgarden's presence in the Seattle music scene, which would eventually explode into mainstream consciousness. It paved the way for their breakthrough album 'Badmotorfinger', influencing many bands within the grunge movement and beyond with its heavy sound and introspective lyrics.

Essential tracks

  • "Hunted Down" — 'Hunted Down' exemplifies the raw energy and dark themes that define Soundgarden's early work, featuring Chris Cornell's haunting vocals.
  • "Swallow My Pride" — This track stands out with its driving rhythm and memorable chorus, encapsulating the angst prevalent in early 90s alternative rock.
  • "Fopp" — 'Fopp' showcases a different side of Soundgarden with its funk influences, demonstrating their versatility while still maintaining an edge.

Release Date

January 1, 1990

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Hunted Down 2:43
  2. 2 Entering 4:36
  3. 3 Tears to Forget 2:00
  4. 4 Nothing to Say 4:00
  5. 5 Little Joe 4:31
  6. 6 Hand of God 4:27
  7. 7 Kingdom of Come 2:35
  8. 8 Swallow My Pride 2:17
  9. 9 Fopp 3:37
  10. 10 Fopp (dub) 6:25