Anthology: SST Years 1985–1989 cover

Anthology: SST Years 1985–1989

Screaming Trees · 1991

74 min · 21 tracks · alternative rock

A mesmerizing blend of grunge and neo-psychedelia wrapped in haunting melodies and introspective lyrics.

Top tracks — play these first

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    The Turning — This track encapsulates the band's signature sound, combining heavy guitar riffs with rich, atmospheric vocals that convey a sense of longing. Its structure and emotional depth exemplify their artistry during this early phase.
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    Cold Rain — A standout for its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, this song reflects the band's ability to blend dark themes with melodic hooks. It resonates deeply within the context of their early work.
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    Night Comes Creeping — This track features dynamic shifts between soft verses and powerful choruses, showcasing the band's range and emotional intensity. It serves as a perfect representation of their musical evolution during this era.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • wave-like pacing for exploration
  • reflective moments in quiet spaces
  • kaleidoscopic soundscapes for deep listening
  • early experimental spirit enthusiasts

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer concise, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1991, 'Anthology: SST Years 1985–1989' captures Screaming Trees' evolution from underground favorites to a recognized force in the grunge movement. This compilation showcases their journey through key releases on SST Records during a pivotal period in alternative rock history, just before their breakthrough with 1992's 'Sweet Oblivion'.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Cold Rain

    The imagery shifts from personal despair to broader existential reflections, evoking a sense of isolation amidst nature's beauty.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Barriers 2:53
  • 2 The Turning 2:46
  • 3 Other Worlds 2:39
  • 4 Transfiguration 3:55
  • 5 Don't Look Down 2:55
  • 6 Cold Rain 3:36
  • 7 In the Forest 4:06
  • 8 Back Together 2:15
  • 9 Other Days and Different Planets 3:14
  • 10 Walk Through to This Side 2:34
  • 11 Smokerings 3:45
  • 12 Ivy 3:19
  • 13 Grey Diamond Desert 4:24
  • 14 Night Comes Creeping 3:54
  • 15 Invisible Lantern 3:04
  • 16 Subtle Poison 3:51
  • 17 Windows 2:42
  • 18 Black Sun Morning 5:01
  • 19 Flower Web 3:41
  • 20 End of the Universe 5:48
  • 21 Where the Twain Shall Meet 3:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata