10 Classic Albums With Glaring Errors
4. In Utero - Nirvana
Nirvana really could have gone anywhere after the release of Nevermind. With their major label debut breaking down the foundations of hard rock, the alternative movement was in full swing with Kurt Cobain leading the charge. Just when it seemed like they could double down on their hookiness, the band shacked up with Steve Albini and got raw.
As it stands, In Utero is probably one of the most uncommercial albums to have ever been released on a major label. While songs like “Heart Shaped Box” and “All Apologies” sounded sweet on first listen, more mainstream fans probably were a bit disappointed at how much visceral energy was on this album.
Though there are some Nirvana classics on here, songs like “tourette’s” and “Milk It” showed the band taking the dissonant punk of their roots and running with it, leading to some of the most blood-curdling performances from Kurt Cobain.
Some fans may see these moments as a bit of a turn-off, but they actually end up being a hidden strength in this band’s arsenal. Recorded in the months before Cobain’s suicide, this is the sound of a broken man trying to actively nullify his existence through pure sonic power.
In Utero might not be the most pleasant album to listen to, but when it shines, it’s some of the most beautiful music the band has ever written.