What makes Clairvoyance by Screaming Trees notable?

Clairvoyance is significant for its role in laying the groundwork for the grunge genre that would dominate the '90s. The album received positive reviews from critics, establishing Screaming Trees as a promising band within the alternative rock landscape, ultimately influencing many artists who followed. Released in 1986, Clairvoyance was Screaming Trees' debut album, marking the beginning of their exploration into the alternative rock scene. At this point, the band was still developing their sound, which would later be refined in subsequent releases as they gained recognition in the grunge movement of the early '90s.

Who is Clairvoyance for?

Clairvoyance works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, introspective soundscapes for solitude and haunting melodies with depth.

How many songs are on Clairvoyance?

Clairvoyance has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Clairvoyance

Screaming Trees · 1986

37 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A swirling blend of neo-psychedelia and hard rock, layered with haunting melodies and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Orange Airplane — The opening track immediately establishes the album's psychedelic vibe with its soaring guitar riffs and vivid imagery, drawing listeners into the band's unique sound.
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Standing on the Edge — This track showcases a blend of heavy instrumentation and emotive vocals, highlighting the band's ability to balance power with introspection.
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Forever — With its haunting melody and lyrical depth, this song encapsulates the themes of longing and existential reflection that permeate the album.

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 album showcases early alternative rock elements with a unique sound but lacks the refinement of later works.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
Several tracks employ layered guitar effects, creating a swirling soundscape that enhances the neo-psychedelic feel.
The lyrics often reflect introspective themes, with vocal melodies that intertwine with the instrumentation rather than dominating it.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
introspective soundscapes for solitude
haunting melodies with depth
consistent flow throughout listening
thought-provoking themes and lyrics

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1986, Clairvoyance was Screaming Trees' debut album, marking the beginning of their exploration into the alternative rock scene. At this point, the band was still developing their sound, which would later be refined in subsequent releases as they gained recognition in the grunge movement of the early '90s.
Stylistic neighbors: Alice in Chains· Soundgarden· Stone Temple Pilots