Grunge music has a unique blend of heavy guitar riffs, raw vocals, and a rebellious spirit that has captivated fans since the late ’80s. If you’re a fan of Mudhoney, one of the pioneering bands of this genre, you’ll likely enjoy the following 17 bands and artists that embody the same gritty, unpolished ethos. For more on Mudhoney, you can check out their Wikipedia page.
1. Nirvana
Nirvana is perhaps the most iconic band of the grunge era, known for their groundbreaking album Nevermind. Popular tracks like “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Come As You Are” continue to resonate with fans around the world.
2. Soundgarden
Soundgarden’s heavy sound and Chris Cornell’s powerful vocals made them a standout in the grunge scene. Albums like Superunknown and songs such as “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman” are essential listens.
3. Alice in Chains
Alice in Chains brought a darker, more melancholic edge to grunge with albums like Dirt. Hits like “Man in the Box” and “Rooster” showcase their haunting harmonies and heavy guitar work.
4. Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam’s debut album Ten is a cornerstone of grunge music, featuring classics such as “Alive” and “Jeremy”. Their energetic live performances and socially conscious lyrics have earned them a dedicated fanbase.
5. Screaming Trees
Screaming Trees blended psychedelic rock with grunge, creating a unique sound. Their album Sweet Oblivion includes hits like “Nearly Lost You” and “Dollar Bill”.
6. Melvins
The Melvins are often credited with influencing the grunge movement with their sludgy, heavy sound. Albums like Houdini and songs such as “Honey Bucket” are must-listens for any grunge enthusiast.
7. Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots gained fame in the early ’90s with their album Core, featuring hits like “Plush” and “Creep”. Their blend of grunge and alternative rock has made them a lasting presence in the music world.
8. Mudhoney
Mudhoney themselves are a seminal grunge band, known for their raw sound and energetic performances. Albums like Superfuzz Bigmuff and songs such as “Touch Me I’m Sick” are essential for any grunge playlist.
9. L7
L7 brought a feminist edge to grunge with their aggressive sound and unapologetic lyrics. Their album Bricks Are Heavy includes anthems like “Pretend We’re Dead” and “Shitlist”.
10. Babes in Toyland
Babes in Toyland’s raw, punk-influenced grunge sound is evident in albums like Fontanelle. Tracks such as “Bruise Violet” and “Sweet ’69” highlight their intense energy and powerful vocals.
11. Green River
Green River is often considered one of the first grunge bands, featuring members who would go on to form Mudhoney and Pearl Jam. Their album Rehab Doll includes tracks like “Swallow My Pride” and “This Town”.
12. Mother Love Bone
Mother Love Bone’s glam-influenced grunge sound is showcased in their album Apple. Songs like “Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns” and “Stardog Champion” highlight their unique blend of styles.
13. Temple of the Dog
Temple of the Dog was a one-off project featuring members of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. Their self-titled album includes the iconic track “Hunger Strike”, a duet between Chris Cornell and Eddie Vedder.
14. The Gits
The Gits combined punk rock with grunge, led by the powerful vocals of Mia Zapata. Their album Frenching the Bully features tracks like “Another Shot of Whiskey” and “Second Skin”.
15. Hole
Fronted by Courtney Love, Hole brought a raw, emotional edge to grunge. Albums like Live Through This include hits such as “Doll Parts” and “Violet”.
16. Bush
Bush achieved success with their debut album Sixteen Stone, featuring hits like “Glycerine” and “Machinehead”. Their post-grunge sound made them one of the most popular bands of the ’90s.
17. Silverchair
Silverchair emerged from Australia with a grunge sound reminiscent of their Seattle counterparts. Their debut album Frogstomp includes hits like “Tomorrow” and “Pure Massacre”.
These bands and artists have all contributed to the rich tapestry of grunge music, offering a diverse range of sounds and styles that will surely resonate with any Mudhoney fan.
