Description
Soundgarden – King Animal – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Records
Soundgarden’s King Animal, released on November 13, 2012, is the band’s sixth studio album and their first release in over 15 years following their breakup in 1997. The album serves as both a triumphant comeback and a reaffirmation of their legacy as one of the pioneering bands of the grunge movement. Featuring tracks like Been Away Too Long, By Crooked Steps, and Bones of Birds, King Animal showcases the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their signature sound.
With Chris Cornell’s powerful vocals, Kim Thayil’s inventive guitar work, and the tight rhythm section of Ben Shepherd and Matt Cameron, the album captures the raw energy and intricate musicianship that made Soundgarden one of the most influential rock bands of the 1990s.
After disbanding in 1997, the members of Soundgarden pursued individual projects, including Chris Cornell’s solo career and his work with Audioslave, and Matt Cameron’s role as drummer for Pearl Jam. The band’s reunion in 2010 sparked anticipation for new music, and King Animal was the result of a collaborative effort that drew on their shared history while embracing modern influences.
Produced by Adam Kasper (who previously worked with Pearl Jam and Foo Fighters) and the band, King Animal was recorded in Seattle, the birthplace of the grunge movement. The album reflects a sense of maturity and cohesion, balancing the heaviness of their earlier work with more melodic and experimental elements.
King Animal stays true to Soundgarden’s grunge roots, with heavy, detuned guitar riffs, complex rhythms, and Cornell’s dynamic vocal range. However, it also incorporates a refined and introspective quality, showcasing the band’s growth as songwriters and musicians. Lyrically, the album explores themes of survival, self-reflection, resilience, and the passage of time, resonating with the band’s journey and long-awaited return.
The production is polished but retains the raw edge that characterizes their sound, making it feel both fresh and familiar.
Track Highlights
Been Away Too Long
The album’s explosive opener is a fitting declaration of Soundgarden’s return, with its driving riff and anthemic chorus. The song captures the energy of their early work while reflecting on their extended absence.
Non-State Actor
A politically charged track with a groovy, syncopated rhythm and Thayil’s angular guitar riffs, it demonstrates the band’s ability to combine heaviness with intricate musicianship.
By Crooked Steps
This standout track features a swaggering rhythm and a powerful vocal performance by Cornell. Its dynamic structure and memorable riff make it a highlight of the album.
Bones of Birds
A hauntingly beautiful track with introspective lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation, it showcases a softer, more melodic side of Soundgarden.
Taree
Written by Ben Shepherd, this song captures a nostalgic and reflective mood, blending warm melodies with a heavy, brooding undercurrent.
Attrition
A fast-paced, hard-rocking track that highlights the band’s rhythmic prowess and tight interplay, with Cameron’s drumming taking center stage.
Worse Dreams
This dark and experimental track features unconventional song structures and eerie vocal harmonies, adding depth and variety to the album.
Eyelid’s Mouth
A complex and brooding song that combines heavy riffs with a disorienting, almost psychedelic atmosphere.
Rowing
Closing the album on a contemplative note, this track features a hypnotic rhythm and a minimalist, bluesy groove, with lyrics that reflect perseverance and determination.
King Animal received critical acclaim upon its release, with many reviewers praising the band’s ability to recapture the essence of their classic sound while pushing their music in new directions. Critics highlighted the chemistry between the band members and the strength of Cornell’s vocal performance, which remained as powerful and emotive as ever.
The album debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and was widely regarded as a successful comeback, reaffirming Soundgarden’s place as one of the most important bands in rock history.
King Animal is significant not only as a musical achievement but also as a testament to Soundgarden’s enduring influence on rock and grunge. The album demonstrated that the band could return after a lengthy hiatus and still create music that resonated with fans and critics alike. It introduced a new generation to Soundgarden’s sound while satisfying longtime fans who had waited years for new material.
The album also underscored the tragic loss of Chris Cornell in 2017, with many songs taking on added poignancy in retrospect, particularly reflective tracks like Bones of Birds and Rowing.
King Animal is a powerful and reflective album that captures Soundgarden’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. With its mix of heavy, riff-driven rock and introspective, melodic moments, the album serves as both a triumphant comeback and a fitting continuation of their legacy. Whether you’re drawn to the raw energy of Been Away Too Long or the haunting beauty of Bones of Birds, King Animal stands as a testament to Soundgarden’s enduring artistry and influence.
Gatefold sleeve.
20 pages booklet with pictures, lyrics and credits.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
Been Away Too Long
Non-State Actor
By Crooked Steps
A Thousand Days Before
Blood On The Valley Floor
Bones Of Birds
Taree
Attrition
Black Saturday
Halfway There
Worse Dreams
Eyelid’s Mouth
Rowing
