When I ask people if they recall the Screaming Trees, most folks give me a puzzled look. Some of those with better memories might recall their hit "Nearly Lost You" from the album Sweet Oblivion, which made it big, in part because it was part of the soundtrack to Cameron Crowe's movie Singles.
Of course, judging the Screaming Trees by this one hit is akin to judging Elvis Costello by "Veronica" – sure, it gives you some idea of what kind of chops the band has, but in no way can give you the breadth of their talents. I urge you to check out some of Screaming Trees' other albums, as there is some excellent stuff to be found (especially on Uncle Anesthesia). Unfortunately, Sweet Oblivion is the only album I've got in .mp3 format right now, so I'll post a couple other tracks from the album that might help you decide if a little grunge by the Screaming Trees is right for you:
First up – "Winter Song" – a little slower and more mellow, this may be my favorite track on the album:
Next, "Troubled Times". When people who really liked "Nearly Lost You" ask for me a recommendation for another track, this is the one I recommend. Very similar in feel to that song, it's also got a little bit of an Alice in Chains type feel to it:
If you liked these, be sure to check out Uncle Anesthesia and Screaming Tree's final album Dust. Or you could follow up by checking out lead singer Mark Lanegan's followup act – (Queens of the Stone Age) or his latest efforts in a duo called The Gutter Twins with former Afghan Whigs vocalist Greg Dulli.
[NaBloPoMo 2008 - #3.2 / 30]
