What makes a rock album truly legendary? Think about those albums you can play over and over. Soundgarden created some of the most powerful and influential music in rock history. But with so many incredible albums, how do you even begin to pick a favorite, or decide which one to listen to next?
Navigating Soundgarden’s discography can feel overwhelming. Fans often debate the merits of their early grunge raw energy versus their later, more polished sounds. You might want the heaviest riffs or the deepest lyrics, but finding the perfect entry point or the definitive masterpiece can be tricky. We understand that confusion!
This post cuts through the noise. We will explore the essential Soundgarden albums, breaking down what makes each one special. You will learn exactly what to expect from their most celebrated work, helping you choose the perfect soundtrack for your next deep dive into grunge.
Top Album Soundgarden Recommendations
![Superunknown[2 LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/412yg5N9XsL._SL160_.jpg)
![Badmotorfinger[LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51gyQ8UBXSL._SL160_.jpg)
- 25th anniversary remastered edition of Soundgarden's 2x platinum album,"Badmotorfinger on vinyl
![Louder Than Love[LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61aM95ekU+L._SL160_.jpg)
- Originally released by A&M Records, Louder Than Love is Soundgarden's 2nd full-length studio album and major label debut Recorded with producer Terry Date at Seattle's London Bridge Studios Now newly remastered by Bob Ludwig from original analog tapes Reissued on 180-gram vinyl with a digital download card for 320kbps MP4 AAC audio In 2001, Q magazine named the album one of the "50 Heaviest Albums of All Time" Also available: Down on the Upside 2LP reissue; band to promote both
- Shrink-wrapped
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- English (Publication Language)
- 06/03/2014 (Publication Date) - A&M (Publisher)
![King Animal[White/Cream 2 LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/514xLOAMFNL._SL160_.jpg)
- King Animal is Soundgarden's sixth and final studio album featuring the singles "Been Away Too Long" and "By Crooked Steps
- Shrink-wrapped
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- English (Publication Language)
- 10/08/1991 (Publication Date) - A&M (Publisher)
![A-Sides[2 LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/414ZlK+OyRL._SL160_.jpg)
- `A-Sides' is released for the first time ever on 180g black double-vinyl
- Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging
- English (Publication Language)
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Soundgarden Album
Soundgarden’s music is powerful. It rocks hard. Buying one of their albums is an exciting step for any music lover. This guide helps you choose the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a Soundgarden album, look closely at a few important things. These features tell you a lot about the quality of the music you get.
- Format: Albums come on Vinyl (LPs), CDs, or as Digital Downloads. Vinyl offers a classic, warm sound. CDs are very portable and clear. Digital files are easy to access anywhere.
- Edition: Check if it is a standard edition or a special edition. Special editions often include bonus tracks or cool artwork.
- Tracklist Completeness: Make sure the album has all the songs you expect. Sometimes, different regional releases have slightly different song lists.
Important Materials and Construction
The physical quality matters, especially for vinyl records. Good materials make the album last longer and sound better.
Vinyl Records (LPs)
Vinyl records are made from PVC plastic. The weight of the record is a big deal. Heavier vinyl, usually 180-gram pressings, resists warping better. Warping ruins the sound. Always check the sleeve (the outer cardboard cover) too. A sturdy sleeve protects the record inside.
CDs and Packaging
CDs should be scratch-free. Examine the jewel case or digipak (cardboard packaging). High-quality printing on the artwork means the band cared about the presentation. Sometimes, older CDs use polycarbonate plastic that degrades over time; newer ones are more stable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The sound quality can change based on how the album was made and handled.
Improving Quality
Remastering: Many classic Soundgarden albums get remastered years later. Remastered versions usually sound louder and clearer on modern stereos. Look for “Remastered” on the cover. Also, original pressings from the 1990s can sound fantastic if they were cared for well.
Reducing Quality
Surface Noise (Vinyl): Scratches and dust create pops and static when you play a record. This noise reduces your enjoyment. If buying used vinyl, ask about its condition carefully.
Poor Digital Compression (Digital): Some older digital versions were compressed too much. This makes the music sound flat. Look for high-resolution digital files (like FLAC or high-bitrate MP3s) for the best digital sound.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to listen determines which format you should buy.
The Audiophile Experience: If you love sitting down and focusing on the music, vinyl is the best choice. Dropping the needle on Superunknown feels like an event. You get the big cover art to look at while listening.
The Convenience Listener: If you want music for your car or gym bag, CDs or digital downloads are perfect. They are easy to carry and don’t need special care.
The Collector: Collectors focus on rarity and presentation. Look for limited-color vinyl pressings or box sets that include memorabilia like posters or photos. These items increase the value over time.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying Soundgarden Albums
Q: Which Soundgarden album should I buy first?
A: Most fans suggest starting with Superunknown or Badmotorfinger. These albums show the band at their peak power.
Q: Is vinyl really better than CD?
A: It depends on your ears and gear. Vinyl offers a warmer, analog sound. CDs offer a cleaner, noise-free digital sound. Try both if you can!
Q: What does “180-gram vinyl” mean?
A: It means the record is thick and heavy. Heavy vinyl plays flatter and lasts longer than thin, lightweight records.
Q: Are used Soundgarden CDs usually safe to buy?
A: Yes, CDs are very durable. Just make sure the playing surface (the shiny side) does not have deep scratches. Light scratches usually do not affect playback.
Q: What is a “gatefold” sleeve?
A: A gatefold sleeve opens up like a book, often showing bigger artwork or lyrics inside. It is a nice feature for vinyl collectors.
Q: How do I clean a used vinyl record?
A: You should use a special record brush before every play. For deeper cleaning, use a dedicated vinyl cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Never use household cleaners.
Q: Do digital versions sound worse than physical copies?
A: Not always. If you buy a high-resolution digital file (like 24-bit audio), it might sound better than a standard old CD. Standard MP3s are often lower quality.
Q: Should I worry about bootlegs?
A: Yes, especially with rare vinyl. Bootlegs are unofficial copies. Buy from trusted sellers or look for official record label markings on the packaging to avoid them.
Q: What is the difference between a reissue and an original pressing?
A: An original pressing was made when the album first came out. A reissue is a newer copy made later. Reissues are usually easier to find and often sound great due to modern mastering.
Q: Are box sets worth the extra money?
A: If you love the band, yes. Box sets often include rare B-sides, live tracks, and great packaging that you cannot get anywhere else.