What makes Again by Alice in Chains notable?

The album's title track reached number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100, while the accompanying Trip Hop mix showcased the band's willingness to experiment with sound. 'Again' solidified Alice in Chains' place in the Seattle grunge scene, influencing numerous artists who sought similar introspective lyrics and dark tones. Released in January 1996, 'Again' marked Alice in Chains' first new material since the 1995 EP 'Jar of Flies', showcasing their return after a period of hiatus. The band was grappling with internal challenges, including lead vocalist Layne Staley's ongoing battle with addiction, which profoundly influenced the album's themes.

How many songs are on Again?

Again has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Again

Alice in Chains · 1996

8 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

Brooding melodies and haunting harmonies encapsulate a struggle with addiction and introspection amidst a backdrop of grunge power.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Again — As the title track, it encapsulates the themes of addiction and longing through its haunting vocal delivery and melancholic instrumentation.
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Again (Trip Hop mix) — This remix reimagines the original track by incorporating electronic elements, reflecting the band's experimental approach during this era and expanding their sonic palette.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodies but lacks depth due to its limited tracklist.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow, brooding tempo with layered harmonies that create a haunting atmosphere.
The Trip Hop mix introduces electronic elements and a different rhythmic structure, contrasting with the original's grunge sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Showcases a departure with new material after a hiatus, blending grunge with Trip Hop elements.
Themes: personal loss· grunge-era introspection· emotional despair
Career context: Released in January 1996, 'Again' marked Alice in Chains' first new material since the 1995 EP 'Jar of Flies', showcasing their return after a period of hiatus. The band was grappling with internal challenges, including lead vocalist Layne Staley's ongoing battle with addiction, which profoundly influenced the album's themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Soundgarden· Stone Temple Pilots· Pearl Jam