What makes Outshined by Soundgarden notable?

'Outshined' became a staple of alternative rock radio, reaching number 45 on the Billboard Hot 100 and significantly contributing to the trajectory of grunge music. The track has been lauded for its raw intensity and was included in various 'best of' lists, further establishing Soundgarden's influence within the genre. Released as part of Soundgarden's third studio album, 'Outshined' marked a turning point in their career following the success of 'Badmotorfinger' in 1991. This single helped solidify their presence in the emerging grunge scene and showcased their evolving sound just before they gained mainstream recognition.

How many songs are on Outshined?

Outshined has 4 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

Outshined

Soundgarden · 1991

15 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

Heavy riffs intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a haunting atmosphere that defines the essence of early 90s grunge.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Outshined (edit) — This track exemplifies Soundgarden's signature blend of heavy guitar work and melodic sensibilities, making it an anthem of the grunge movement.
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I Can't Give You Anything — With its short runtime, this song captures raw emotion and vulnerability, contrasting sharply with the heavier tracks on the album.
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Homicidal Suicidal — This track stands out for its aggressive tone and complex rhythms, showcasing the band's ability to merge heavy metal influences with grunge aesthetics.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single combines heavy riffs with introspective lyrics, marking a significant moment in early 90s grunge.

What we noticed

The title track features heavy guitar riffs that alternate with quieter, introspective verses, creating a dynamic contrast.
The second track introduces a more melodic approach with layered harmonies, differing from the aggressive tone of the first.

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

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 — 'Outshined' solidified Soundgarden's presence in the grunge scene after 'Badmotorfinger'.
Themes: grunge disillusionment· heavy metal introspection· Seattle scene angst
Moods: Intense· Energetic
Career context: Released as part of Soundgarden's third studio album, 'Outshined' marked a turning point in their career following the success of 'Badmotorfinger' in 1991. This single helped solidify their presence in the emerging grunge scene and showcased their evolving sound just before they gained mainstream recognition.
Stylistic neighbors: Alice in Chains· Stone Temple Pilots· Pearl Jam