10 Greatest Hard Rock Basslines
3. Would? - Alice in Chains
Alice in Chains were one of the grunge bands who seemed to radiate dread in each of their songs. From stompers like "Them Bones" to more contemplative tracks like "No Excuses," each song had that certain twisted element that made it both terrifying and impossible to resist. When it came to cutting the track "Would?," the band took us by the hand to show us a view of Seattle at street level.
Most of the song is dominated by Layne Staley's fantastic vocal performance combined with the brooding tone of Jerry Cantrell's guitar, but Mike Starr is what really kicks the song into high gear. The opening riff sounds almost like it's a monster awakening from his sleep, as it sulks around the beat and reels you in before the guitars settle you into the groove. With much of Cantrell's guitar lines being minimalistic riffing, many fans can't help but be brought into a melancholy state of mind as the bass plods along.
Out of all the grunge songs to come out during the early 90's, this was the one track that transported you to the rainy city through the power of music. It might not be the most inviting ride, but it's one you'll be willing to go down every time the track comes on.