Have to admit I was never a huge grunge fan (even would confide not a huge Pearl Jam fan). But this album hit just the right vibe with me and has stayed that way. The songs are a bit longer than the typical Seattle fare, but they are mining a mood, I think, not so much expressing an idea (if that makes sense). The last three songs are a great example of this. I really recommend this album; hopefully the songs will stick to you as they have for me.
Great to hear what Layne and McCready can do away from their regular bands. "I'm Above" has a monster riff and "River of Deceit" is one of Layne's best vocals (which is saying a lot).
This shit sounds Great
This is definitely an example of where the AMG reviewer is so completely wrong, that I wonder if he even listened to the right record. About the only thing he gets right is the word "somber," which Alone most certainly is...at times. This album (and AiC's Jar of Flies) redefined the "Seattle sound," by throwing the preconceived notions about flannel shirts and Cobain-inspired self-pity out the window. This record is essentially Layne Staley's suicide note. Although it can seem to be indulgent at times, I think it is actually far more soul-baring than it is attention seeking. The two tracks where Mark Lanegan appears (especially Long Gone Day) are masterful. This album really should be listened to as a whole. Every song builds on the one before it. Listening to Above is an experience that can't be cut up into "singles." If you don't like it the first time, listen to it again (and again)...
yeah this album is pretty essential if you were into the 90s scene at all. if you liked Alice in Chains, especially the unplugged album then this should be right up your alley. in my opinion it doesn't sound like Pearl Jam at all... it's kinda like if AIC and Screaming Trees met up. it helps that Mark Lanegan is on two of the tracks. this is a great album!
This is a GREAT album. A must have for any AIC fan since it almost sounds like another Alice album.
