What makes Hunted Down by Soundgarden notable?

Hunted Down is significant for its role in defining the sound of grunge and alternative metal in the late '80s. The EP received critical acclaim and helped establish Soundgarden as key players in the Seattle music scene, influencing a generation of musicians and leading to their later commercial success. Released in 1987, Hunted Down was Soundgarden's debut EP, positioning them at the forefront of the emerging grunge movement. The band had just signed with SST Records, establishing a foothold in the underground music scene that would soon explode into mainstream recognition.

How many songs are on Hunted Down?

Hunted Down has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Hunted Down

Soundgarden · 1987

6 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

Raw, gritty riffs collide with anguished vocals, embodying the burgeoning sound of Seattle's early grunge scene.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hunted Down — The title track showcases Chris Cornell's powerful vocals and intricate guitar work, setting a template for future grunge anthems.
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Nothing to Say — This track features heavy riffs and introspective lyrics, illustrating the band's knack for blending melody with raw energy.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The EP's raw sound and emotional delivery mark it as a strong entry in the early grunge scene.

What we noticed

Both tracks feature heavy, distorted guitar riffs that drive the music forward with a raw intensity.
Vocals are delivered in a strained, anguished style that complements the gritty instrumentation.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 — Established Soundgarden as key players in the emerging grunge movement.
Themes: Seattle grunge scene· raw emotional turmoil· underground music rebellion
Moods: Energetic· Dark
Career context: Released in 1987, Hunted Down was Soundgarden's debut EP, positioning them at the forefront of the emerging grunge movement. The band had just signed with SST Records, establishing a foothold in the underground music scene that would soon explode into mainstream recognition.
Stylistic neighbors: Alice in Chains· Stone Temple Pilots· Pearl Jam