Smells Like Alternative

Today is the day that many of us have patiently waited for…the release of Nirvana Unplugged In New York on DVD.

Of course, more than a decade later it may seem a bit hard to remember why this was a classic performance; so let’s run down some reasons why.

Let’s begin with the hype leading up to the performance. See, none of us knew what the band was going to do. There were rumours flying everywhere that there was going to be special guests, which would include possibly some members from Pearl Jam. People speculated that Eddie Vedder would show up and this would end the bogus rivalry between the two bands. Needless to say, we had some high expectations before the show was even tapped.

Another reason why the show is a classic is because of the setlist. Nirvana could have easily came out and played all of their hits, but they shocked us all. Instead the band pulled out gems like “About A Girl” and a slew of covers. The band didn’t rely on “hits” to make this great performance, instead they introduced a new generation to David Bowie, Leadbelly and the Meat Puppets. And, they also managed to sprinkle in some of their better songs from their catalogue, like “Pennyroyal Tea” and “On A Plain”.

A third reason is that the band just sounded that good on that November night in 1993. Kurt Cobain proved he had a beautiful voice and also showed us that he wasn’t that shabby of a guitar player. Krist Novoselic playing the accordion on “Jesus Doesn’t Want Me For A Sunbeam” was an added treat. Dave Grohl proved how talented of a drummer he was by actually turning it down; which seems odd, but listen to Pearl Jam’s Unplugged and the way Dave Abbruzzese beats the crap out of the drums, it kind of takes away from the experience.

Here’s another reason, the dialogue between the band in between songs. I think this really shows how close these guys were to each other. I’ll always remember Dave telling Kurt “That sounded good” after “Pennyroyal Tea” and Kurt replying with a simple “Shut up”. The band was just having fun.

Here’s a couple a more. The brothers Kirkwood joining Nirvana for three Meat Puppets (“Oh Me”, “Lake of Fire” and “Plateau”), which sound much better than the Meat Puppets versions. And, that sweater Kurt Cobain was wearing, it’s just classic.

After Cobain’s suicide the decision was made to release Unplugged, and it sold big. Of course the fact the he died at the band’s peak helped push sales; but we shouldn’t forget that this performance was awesome. I’d probably say that this was the best Unplugged, ever.

So, pick up this DVD and enjoy the entire performance; as well as the version that was aired on MTV, interviews with the band and fans and the rehearsals for the show.

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