What makes Check My Brain by Alice in Chains notable?

'Check My Brain' reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and received critical acclaim for its raw sound and poignant themes. The track is notable for its exploration of addiction and self-reflection, resonating with listeners and reinforcing the band's legacy in the grunge and alternative metal scenes. In 2009, Alice in Chains released 'Check My Brain' as part of their first studio album since reuniting with lead vocalist William DuVall. This album marked a significant return after the death of original frontman Layne Staley in 2002, showcasing the band's evolution and resilience in a changing music landscape.

How many songs are on Check My Brain?

Check My Brain has 2 tracks, running approximately 10 minutes.

Check My Brain

Alice in Chains · 2009

10 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A gritty blend of heavy riffs and introspective lyrics, echoing the band’s grunge roots while pushing into modern rock territory.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Check My Brain — This title track encapsulates the album's exploration of addiction and self-awareness through heavy guitar riffs and candid lyrics, marking a powerful comeback for the band.
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Down in a Hole (live) — This live version highlights the band's emotional depth, showcasing how their classic track resonates differently with contemporary audiences amid the new material.

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 blends heavy riffs with introspective lyrics, marking a solid return for the band.

What we noticed

The song features a heavy, distorted guitar riff that drives the verses, while the chorus shifts to a more melodic approach.
The lyrics focus on themes of addiction and self-reflection, with a conversational delivery that enhances their introspective nature.

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 3/10

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: Breakthrough — Reintroduced the band after a long hiatus, marking their return to prominence.
Themes: addiction recovery· post-reunion introspection· Seattle grunge legacy
Career context: In 2009, Alice in Chains released 'Check My Brain' as part of their first studio album since reuniting with lead vocalist William DuVall. This album marked a significant return after the death of original frontman Layne Staley in 2002, showcasing the band's evolution and resilience in a changing music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Soundgarden· Stone Temple Pilots· Pearl Jam