Down on the Upside
Soundgarden · 1996
65 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock · hard rock · heavy metal
A brooding blend of heavy riffs and introspective lyrics, echoing the complexities of post-grunge identity.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys atmospheric background focus
- Context
- Released on May 21, 1996, 'Down on the Upside' was Soundgarden's fifth studio album and followed their critically acclaimed 'Superunknown'. By this time, they were at the forefront of the grunge movement, but faced pressures from evolving musical trends and internal band dynamics. This album marked a significant shift towards more experimental sounds as they navigated their artistic identity post-mainstream success.
- If you like
- alternative rock, hard rock, heavy metal
Down on the Upside is an album by Soundgarden, released in 1996. A brooding blend of heavy riffs and introspective lyrics, echoing the complexities of post-grunge identity. 'Down on the Upside' debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, solidifying Soundgarden's status in rock. The album was noted for its darker themes and complex arrangements, receiving positive reviews from critics for its lyrical depth. It also showcased their influence on alternative metal and grunge's evolution during the mid-90s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Down on the Upside sound like?
A brooding blend of heavy riffs and introspective lyrics, echoing the complexities of post-grunge identity. Rooted in alternative rock and hard rock.
What makes Down on the Upside by Soundgarden notable?
'Down on the Upside' debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, solidifying Soundgarden's status in rock. The album was noted for its darker themes and complex arrangements, receiving positive reviews from critics for its lyrical depth. It also showcased their influence on alternative metal and grunge's evolution during the mid-90s. Released on May 21, 1996, 'Down on the Upside' was Soundgarden's fifth studio album and followed their critically acclaimed 'Superunknown'. By this time, they were at the forefront of the grunge movement, but faced pressures from evolving musical trends and internal band dynamics. This album marked a significant shift towards more experimental sounds as they navigated their artistic identity post-mainstream success.
Who is Down on the Upside for?
Down on the Upside works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.
How many songs are on Down on the Upside?
Down on the Upside has 16 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Pretty Noose Standout 4:11
- 2 Rhinosaur 3:14
- 3 Zero Chance 4:18
- 4 Dusty 4:34
- 5 Ty Cobb 3:05
- 6 Blow Up the Outside World Standout 5:45
- 7 Burden in My Hand Standout 4:49
- 8 Never Named 2:27
- 9 Applebite 5:09
- 10 Never the Machine Forever 3:36
- 11 Tighter & Tighter 6:06
- 12 No Attention 4:26
- 13 Switch Opens 3:52
- 14 Overfloater 5:08
- 15 An Unkind 2:08
- 16 Boot Camp 2:58
Release Date
May 21, 1996
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
65 min 54 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
