Skin Yard cover

Skin Yard

Skin Yard · 1987

60 min · 15 tracks · grunge

Raw guitar riffs and haunting vocals create a gritty soundscape that captures the essence of late '80s grunge.

Why this album works

Skin Yard is significant for its role in shaping the early grunge sound that would explode in popularity shortly after. The album received positive critical reception, helping to pave the way for other Seattle bands by showcasing a rawer, more aggressive style that contrasted with mainstream rock of the era.
Best for
dynamic emotional journeys gradual builds and payoffs long, immersive listening sessions
Context
Released in 1987, Skin Yard's self-titled debut album marked their emergence in the Seattle music scene. At this time, they were establishing themselves as key players in the burgeoning grunge movement, following several years of local performances and a growing reputation.
Stylistic neighbors
Local H· Melvins· Soundgarden

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Skins in My Closet 5:20
  • 2 Reptile Standout 3:01
  • 3 Epitaph for Yesterday Standout 4:30
  • 4 The Blind Leading the Blind 5:06
  • 5 Scratch 3:44
  • 6 Dear Deceased 3:35
  • 7 Stuck in a Plan Standout 3:40
  • 8 Jabberwocky 2:46
  • 9 Gelatin Babies 4:26
  • 10 Bleed 5:51
  • 11 Out of the Attic 4:24
  • 12 Skinstruction 2:51
  • 13 Red Tension 3:15
  • 14 The Birds 4:01
  • 15 She Shook Me Cold (live) 4:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata