What makes These Are Days by 10,000 Maniacs notable?

'These Are Days' achieved notable commercial success, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its uplifting message. The album solidified the band's presence in the alternative rock scene of the early '90s, influencing many subsequent artists with its blend of folk and rock elements. Released in early 1992, 'These Are Days' marked a significant moment for 10,000 Maniacs as their first album after the departure of founding member and guitarist Rob Buck. The band was transitioning into a new phase, exploring deeper lyrical themes while maintaining their signature sound from previous releases.