Independent Research Entry

Nirvana was a band that inspired a generation. Few bands have single handily changed music and popular culture like Nirvana.
During the late eighties, hair and glam metal were peaking out and listeners were looking for something new to turn to. Nirvana struck at the perfect time with a new sound and new approach to recording. Nirvana set apart from bands of the time in so many different ways it would be difficult to cover them all. Most notably was the lack of musical skill which turned many listeners off as it did on. Most Nirvana songs consisted of a few simple chords, bast bass rhythms, and lack luster solos. This was so contrasting to the power metal and glam rock that was so popular only years before. The songs focused more on raw emotion to drive the sound as apposed to complex arrangements and flashy instrumentation. Another large distinction between the new emerging grunge bands and bands preceding was the concentration on sound and recording techniques. Often times a band had the best gear to get the best sound and exorbitant amounts of money were spent on gear. Lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain spent much of his time looking for odd gear to expand his sound, none of which were particularly lavish or expensive. Pawn shop pedals and guitars were his weapons of choice and he spent hours honing great sounds on bad equipment. Because of the lack of care for these cheap pieces of equipment, each show was usually followed by destruction of these instruments which added to presentation and "angst" that these bands were known for.
As a listener I love Nirvana. The simplicity combined with the raw feeling presented by their songs is appealing to me in all aspects. Many bands before and after have tried this method, but to me, none were ever as successful. There are few bands that can inspire moods so rapidly in me as a listener. as an industry professional, I am constantly impressed by their albums. The sounds and tones captured were unlike anything I had heard and have yet to hear done as well. Every guitar riff and it's coinciding tone match perfectly. All the feeling in Kurt's powerful, dirty voice is equally matched in power and grit by the sound of the band behind him. Nevermind is one of the greatest albums ever recorded in my opinion and Butch Vig remains one of my favorite producers to date. In my mind, a better record may never be released.