11 Underrated Grunge Songs: A Rare Mix

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, the heart and soul behind Level Tunes. As a DJ and an ardent music fan, I’m always on the lookout for tracks that resonate with the soul but somehow slip under the mainstream radar.

Today, I’m thrilled to share with you something special – a carefully curated list of 11 underrated grunge songs. Grunge, with its raw energy and authentic emotions, has always held a special place in my heart.

However, I’ve noticed that while a few iconic bands grabbed the spotlight, many incredible grunge tracks were left lurking in the shadows. That’s why I decided to dive deep and bring these hidden gems to the forefront.

This list is a tribute to the uncelebrated brilliance of grunge, a journey through its lesser-known but equally captivating tunes. So, plug in your headphones, and let’s embark on this grunge odyssey together!

Here are the Underrated Grunge songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Grunge Songs

Underrated Grunge songs in a list format:

1. Mudhoney – “Overblown” (From “Singles” Soundtrack, 1992, Epic Records)

“Overblown” by Mudhoney, featured on the iconic “Singles” soundtrack of 1992, is a grunge masterpiece that often gets overshadowed. Released under Epic Records, this track is a quintessential example of Mudhoney’s raw and unapologetic sound. I chose it because it encapsulates the gritty essence of early grunge. The song’s driving guitar riffs and Mark Arm’s impassioned vocals make it an unforgettable anthem. It’s a piece that not only defines Mudhoney’s style but also gives a nod to the Seattle grunge scene’s early days. The band members, including Steve Turner on guitar, bring a unique energy that’s both infectious and introspective.

2. Screaming Trees – “Nearly Lost You” (From “Sweet Oblivion”, 1992, Epic Records)

Screaming Trees’ “Nearly Lost You,” from their 1992 album “Sweet Oblivion” on Epic Records, is a grunge classic that deserves more recognition. The song features Mark Lanegan’s hauntingly deep vocals, backed by Gary Lee Conner’s compelling guitar work. I included this track for its emotionally charged lyrics and the band’s ability to blend melodic elements with the heavier grunge sound. It’s a perfect example of the genre’s versatility, and Lanegan’s voice adds a layer of depth that sets it apart from its contemporaries. This song showcases the band’s talent for creating music that’s both powerful and poignant.

3. Mother Love Bone – “Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns” (From “Apple”, 1990, Polydor/Stardog Records)

Mother Love Bone’s “Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns” from their 1990 album “Apple,” released under Polydor/Stardog Records, is a two-part epic that’s breathtakingly beautiful. Andrew Wood’s soulful voice and poetic lyrics, combined with the band’s dynamic musicality, create a piece that’s both grandiose and intimate. I chose this song for its emotional depth and the way it seamlessly blends rock with a more introspective sound. It’s a testament to Andrew Wood’s genius and the band’s ability to craft songs that are timeless and deeply moving. This track stands as a poignant reminder of Wood’s talent and the potential of Mother Love Bone.

4. Soundgarden – “4th of July” (From “Superunknown”, 1994, A&M Records)

“4th of July” by Soundgarden, from their groundbreaking 1994 album “Superunknown” on A&M Records, is a grunge tour de force. Chris Cornell’s powerful vocals, combined with Kim Thayil’s heavy, psychedelic guitar work, create a song that’s dark and mesmerizing. I included this track for its raw intensity and the way it captures the essence of Soundgarden’s innovative approach to music. The song’s heavy riffs and Cornell’s haunting lyrics make it a standout track on an album full of hits. It’s a prime example of the band’s ability to push the boundaries of the grunge genre.

5. Temple of the Dog – “Times of Trouble” (From “Temple of the Dog”, 1991, A&M Records)

Temple of the Dog’s “Times of Trouble,” from their 1991 self-titled album on A&M Records, is a hidden gem in the grunge canon. This supergroup, featuring members of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam, created a song that’s both introspective and powerful. I chose it for its emotional resonance and the stunning vocal performance by Chris Cornell. The song’s reflective lyrics and the band’s dynamic sound showcase the collaborative genius of these Seattle musicians. It’s a poignant track that exemplifies the depth and versatility of the grunge movement.

6. Mad Season – “River of Deceit” (From “Above”, 1995, Columbia Records)

Mad Season’s “River of Deceit,” from their 1995 album “Above” on Columbia Records, is a hauntingly beautiful track. Featuring Layne Staley’s iconic vocals and Mike McCready’s expressive guitar playing, this song is a testament to the band’s unique sound. I included it for its soul-stirring lyrics and the raw emotion that Staley brings to every line. The song captures the essence of Mad Season’s brief but impactful contribution to grunge, showcasing their ability to create music that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable.

7. Green River – “Swallow My Pride” (From “Rehab Doll”, 1988, Sub Pop Records)

Green River’s “Swallow My Pride,” from their 1988 album “Rehab Doll” on Sub Pop Records, is a pivotal track in the early grunge scene. As one of the genre’s progenitors, Green River crafted a song that’s both aggressive and catchy. I chose this track for its raw energy and the way it showcases the band’s pioneering sound. Featuring Mark Arm’s distinctive vocals and the band’s gritty musical style, “Swallow My Pride” is a crucial piece of grunge history and a must-listen for fans of the genre.

8. Skin Yard – “1000 Smiling Knuckles” (From “1000 Smiling Knuckles”, 1991, Cruz Records)

Skin Yard’s title track from their 1991 album “1000 Smiling Knuckles,” released on Cruz Records, is a powerful yet overlooked grunge anthem. Led by Ben McMillan’s intense vocal delivery and the band’s dynamic sound, this song embodies the raw spirit of the Seattle scene. I included it for its visceral energy and the way it captures the essence of the underground grunge movement. The track’s aggressive guitar work and compelling lyrics make it a standout in Skin Yard’s discography and a hidden treasure in grunge music.

9. Tad – “Grease Box” (From “Inhaler”, 1993, Giant Records)

Tad’s “Grease Box,” from their 1993 album “Inhaler” on Giant Records, is a grunge powerhouse. Tad Doyle’s guttural vocals and the band’s heavy, sludgy sound create a song that’s both intense and captivating. I chose this track for its sheer sonic force and the unique flavor it brings to the grunge genre. The song’s heavy riffs and pounding rhythms showcase Tad’s ability to blend aggression with melody, making “Grease Box” a must-listen for fans of the heavier side of grunge.

10. The Melvins – “Honey Bucket” (From “Houdini”, 1993, Atlantic Records)

The Melvins’ “Honey Bucket,” from their 1993 album “Houdini” on Atlantic Records, is a high-energy grunge track that’s often overlooked. Known for their influence on the Seattle sound, The Melvins bring a unique blend of punk and metal to this song. I included it because of its relentless pace and Buzz Osborne’s distinctive vocal style. The track’s driving riffs and explosive energy make it a standout in the grunge genre, showcasing The Melvins’ ability to push musical boundaries.

11. 7 Year Bitch – “The Scratch” (From “¡Viva Zapata!”, 1994, C/Z Records)

7 Year Bitch’s “The Scratch,” from their 1994 album “¡Viva Zapata!” on C/Z Records, is a fierce and empowering grunge track. This all-female band brings a raw and unfiltered energy to the song, led by Selene Vigil’s powerful vocals. I chose this song for its boldness and the way it represents a different facet of the grunge scene. The track’s gritty sound and rebellious spirit make it a standout, highlighting 7 Year Bitch’s contribution to the genre and their role in championing female voices in rock music.

Fun Facts: Underrated Grunge Songs

3. Mother Love Bone – “Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns”

• Andrew Wood’s Inspiration: The lead singer, Andrew Wood, often drew inspiration from his personal life for his lyrics. “Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns” is believed to be about his relationship with his fiancée, and the struggles they faced together.
• Posthumous Recognition: Tragically, Andrew Wood passed away just days before the album’s release. The song gained more attention and became a cult classic after his death, highlighting his talent as a songwriter and performer.

4. Soundgarden – “4th of July”

• Cornell’s Inspiration: Chris Cornell wrote “4th of July” after a psychedelic experience. The song’s heavy, sludgy sound is a reflection of the dark, introspective state he was in during its creation.
• Sound Experimentation: This track is known for its unique tuning. Kim Thayil, the guitarist, often experimented with different tunings, which contributed to the distinct sound of Soundgarden’s music.

5. Temple of the Dog – “Times of Trouble”

• Tribute to Andrew Wood: Temple of the Dog was formed as a tribute to Andrew Wood. The band featured members from Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. “Times of Trouble” lyrics were originally written by Wood and were given to Chris Cornell to finish.
• Super-group Formation: The band is considered one of the first “super-groups” of the 90s, bringing together some of the most influential musicians of the grunge era.

6. Mad Season – “River of Deceit”

• Supergroup Members: Mad Season wasn’t just any band; it was a supergroup composed of members from Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, and Screaming Trees. Layne Staley (Alice in Chains), Mike McCready (Pearl Jam), Barrett Martin (Screaming Trees), and John Baker Saunders formed this unique ensemble.
• Inspired by Literature: The lyrics of “River of Deceit” were heavily influenced by “The Prophet” by Khalil Gibran. Layne Staley found personal meaning in the book, which reflected in the song’s introspective and philosophical lyrics.

9. Tad – “Grease Box”

• Tad’s Unique Sound: Tad Doyle, the lead singer, was known for his distinct, deep voice and imposing physical presence, both of which greatly influenced the band’s heavy sound.
• Controversial Music Video: The music video for “Grease Box” was noted for its dark humor and unusual imagery, which was a staple in Tad’s approach to music and visual art.

10. The Melvins – “Honey Bucket”

• Influencers of a Genre: The Melvins are often credited with being one of the key influences on the grunge genre, despite their sound leaning more towards doom metal and punk.
• Longevity and Influence: The Melvins have had a long-lasting career, influencing not only grunge but also the sludge, doom, and stoner rock genres.

11. 7 Year Bitch – “The Scratch”

• Empowering Women in Rock: 7 Year Bitch was known for their feminist stance and empowering message, being one of the few all-female bands in the grunge scene.
• Tribute to a Lost Friend: The album “¡Viva Zapata!” was a tribute to The Gits’ frontwoman, Mia Zapata, who was a close friend of the band members and was tragically murdered in 1993. The album’s raw energy and emotion serve as a powerful homage to their friend.

And there you have it, music lovers! From the soul-stirring melodies of Mother Love Bone to the empowering anthems of 7 Year Bitch, these 11 underrated grunge tracks are a testament to the genre’s depth and diversity. Dive into these gems and experience the raw, unfiltered essence of grunge.

Thanks for reading.

TBone