There are so many CDs that are classics and this one holds a special place in my heart. It's too bad that this is one of the many excellent bands of the 90s whose careers were cut short due to the insane use of heroine by one of their members.

Alice In Chains
Dirt (1992)

This is another release that I picked up because of seeing a video on the Power 30 (MuchMusic's GOOD metal show in the 90s). When I first saw the video for the lead off track, “Them Bones,” I new that this was a must have.

Vocalist Layne Staley and vocalist/guitarist Jerry Cantrell paved their way out of the grunge label with a rock record that stands the test of time. The duos' harmonized voices brought a sort of peace over many tracks of sludgy guitars and tight rhythm section that held everything together.

Most of the lyrics in Dirt are really from the heart. Staley's drug addictions were the inspiration and his pain shines through. Here was a man pouring his heart out on songs like “Sickman,” “Dirt,” and “Hate to Feel.” I don't know what problems, if any, Cantrell may have had, but he adds another dimension to Staley's approach. You could really hear Cantrell's vocal influence on their next self-titled disc where it seemed like Staley was too high to even take part in the recording.

If you need to sample or have one track ever from this band, you have to listen to “Down In a Hole.” The song is haunting and sad but beautiful at the same time. It's about a man that knows he has a problem and although he has a tad bit of hope, he just can't overcome it (or at least that's what I get out of it).

Although the lyrics are depressing and a cry for help, there are some rocking songs on here that almost mask the melancholy. “Them Bones,” “Damn That River,” “Would?” and “Angry Chair” are all prime examples.

Most people remember Nirvana for being one of the most influential bands of the 90s (and rightfully so), but I think this album touchs many people as well. Seattle's grunge scene was much more than what the media said it was and this CD is a prime example. Give the artist their dues and go out and buy this — don't download.