What makes Painkillers by Babes in Toyland notable?

Painkillers helped establish Babes in Toyland as a notable force in alternative rock, gaining critical acclaim and cult status. The EP features live tracks that captured the band's intense performances, contributing to its reputation within the underground music scene and influencing future female-fronted bands. Released in January 1993, Painkillers is Babes in Toyland's first studio release following their debut album, Spanking Machine. This EP marked a significant moment in their career, showcasing their evolving sound and solidifying their presence in the grunge movement alongside contemporaries like Nirvana and Hole.

Who is Painkillers for?

Painkillers works well if you're into exhilarating live performance energy, chaotic rhythms for active listening and short bursts of raw intensity.

How many songs are on Painkillers?

Painkillers has 16 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Painkillers

Babes in Toyland · 1993

51 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock

Raw and unfiltered, this EP captures the chaotic energy and feminist angst of the early 90s alternative rock scene.

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Top tracks — play these first

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He's My Thing — This track exemplifies the band's raw sound with aggressive guitar riffs and powerful vocals, making it a standout anthem of female empowerment.
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Bruise Violet (live) — The live version amplifies the song's emotional intensity, showcasing the band's energetic stage presence and ability to engage audiences.
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Angel Hair — A prime example of their signature blend of melody and dissonance, this track encapsulates the band's exploration of vulnerability amidst chaos.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

exhilarating live performance energy
chaotic rhythms for active listening
short bursts of raw intensity
wave-like pacing keeps engagement
fierce vocals for cathartic release

Maybe skip if you

prefer polished studio sound
seek long, meditative tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1993, Painkillers is Babes in Toyland's first studio release following their debut album, Spanking Machine. This EP marked a significant moment in their career, showcasing their evolving sound and solidifying their presence in the grunge movement alongside contemporaries like Nirvana and Hole.
Stylistic neighbors: L7· Hole· Sonic Youth

Tracklist

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

1 He's My Thing 2:54
2 Laredo 2:39
3 Istigkeit 4:22
4 Ragweed 3:20
5 Angel Hair 4:00
6 Bruise Violet (live) 3:13
7 Bluebell (live) 2:34
8 Angel Hair (live) 3:52
9 Pearl (live) 2:16
10 Blood (live) 3:02
11 Magick Flute (live) 3:38
12 Won't Tell (live) 2:30
13 Real Eyes (live) 3:59
14 Spun (live) 3:16
15 Mother (live) 3:18
16 Handsome & Gretel (live) 2:05

What to play next

Listen next

White Jam

1993

Go back to

Fontanelle

1992

Full Babes in Toyland discography Artists like Babes in Toyland

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata