Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
2. Soundgarden – “Jesus Christ Pose”
Soundgarden is one of the grunge bands that most frequently incorporated metal elements into their music. “Jesus Christ Pose,” from their 1991 album Badmotorfinger, is a testament to their ability to blend heavy metal’s aggression with grunge’s gritty aesthetic.
Musical Structure
The song is driven by Kim Thayil’s complex guitar work and Chris Cornell’s powerful vocals. Its rapid tempo and intricate riffs are reminiscent of thrash metal, while the lyrics criticize the exploitation of religious imagery.
3. Alice in Chains – “Them Bones”
Alice in Chains often blurred the lines between grunge and metal, and “Them Bones” is one of their heaviest tracks. Featured on their 1992 album Dirt, the song is a perfect mix of Jerry Cantrell’s metal-inspired guitar riffs and Layne Staley’s haunting vocals.
Lyrical Content
The lyrics of “Them Bones” deal with existential anxiety and mortality, themes frequently explored in metal music. Its aggressive sound and dark themes make it a quintessential metal track from the grunge era.
4. Pearl Jam – “Go”
Pearl Jam, known for their more rock-oriented sound, also dipped into metal influences, especially in their song “Go” from the 1993 album Vs.. The track is driven by intense drumming and heavy guitar riffs, showcasing a more aggressive side of the band.
Drumming and Guitar Work
“Go” features dynamic drumming by Dave Abbruzzese and a raw energy that aligns with metal’s intensity. The song’s aggressive tone and fast-paced rhythm highlight Pearl Jam’s versatility and ability to incorporate metal into their repertoire.
5. Stone Temple Pilots – “Down”
Stone Temple Pilots, often associated with the post-grunge movement, delivered one of their heaviest tracks with “Down.” Released on their 1999 album No. 4, this song reflects the band’s exploration of darker, heavier sounds.
Heavy Riffs
Dean DeLeo’s guitar work in “Down” is characterized by powerful, chugging riffs, while Scott Weiland’s vocals add a gritty edge. The song’s aggressive approach and driving rhythm make it a standout metal-inspired track in the band’s discography.
6. Mudhoney – “Into the Drink”
Mudhoney, one of the pioneers of the grunge movement, often infused their music with punk and metal elements. “Into the Drink,” from their 1991 album Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge, is a high-energy track that leans into metal’s raw power.
Punk and Metal Fusion
The song combines punk’s speed and metal’s heaviness, featuring fast-paced drumming and distorted guitars. Its frenetic energy and aggressive sound capture the essence of early grunge’s fusion with metal.
7. Screaming Trees – “Shadow of the Season”
Screaming Trees, known for their psychedelic and hard rock influences, created a metal-infused sound with “Shadow of the Season.” This track from their 1992 album Sweet Oblivion showcases their ability to blend grunge with heavier musical elements.
Atmospheric Sound
The song’s brooding atmosphere and Mark Lanegan’s deep, resonant vocals create a haunting vibe. The heavy guitar work and layered arrangements contribute to its metal-like intensity.
8. Melvins – “Honey Bucket”
The Melvins are often credited with laying the groundwork for grunge, and their song “Honey Bucket” from the 1993 album Houdini is a prime example of their metal influences. With its fast tempo and aggressive sound, it’s one of their most metal-driven tracks.
Impact on Grunge
The Melvins’ influence on grunge is undeniable, and “Honey Bucket” exemplifies their ability to blend punk, metal, and grunge into a cohesive sound. The song’s complex rhythms and heavy riffs are hallmarks of their innovative style.
9. Temple of the Dog – “Pushin Forward Back”
Temple of the Dog, a supergroup featuring members of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam, explored heavy sounds in “Pushin Forward Back.” This track from their self-titled 1991 album blends grunge and metal seamlessly.
Collaborative Effort
The song’s powerful instrumentation and Chris Cornell’s commanding vocals highlight the collaborative synergy between band members. Its heavy guitar work and driving rhythm make it a standout track in their limited discography.
10. L7 – “Shove”
L7, an all-female grunge band, made waves with their aggressive sound and feminist themes. “Shove,” from their 1990 album Smell the Magic, is a hard-hitting track that incorporates metal’s intensity.
Feminist Message
The song’s raw energy and rebellious lyrics cement L7’s status as trailblazers in the grunge scene. “Shove” combines punk’s attitude with metal’s heaviness, creating a powerful anthem that resonates with listeners.
11. Mother Love Bone – “Holy Roller”
Mother Love Bone, a precursor to Pearl Jam, infused their glam rock sound with metal elements in “Holy Roller.” This track from their 1992 album Apple showcases the band’s dynamic range and musical prowess.
Glam and Metal Fusion
The song features driving guitar riffs and Andrew Wood’s charismatic vocals, blending glam rock’s flair with metal’s aggression. “Holy Roller” highlights the band’s ability to merge different genres into a cohesive, powerful sound.
In conclusion, while grunge is often characterized by its raw and unpolished sound, many of the genre’s leading bands incorporated heavy metal elements into their music. From Nirvana’s gritty riffs to Soundgarden’s complex arrangements, these eleven bands demonstrate how metal’s influence helped shape the grunge movement. Each of these tracks stands as a testament to the genre’s diversity and its ability to transcend musical boundaries.