Screaming Trees were a Seattle-based alternative rock band that formed in 1985 and became a staple of the Pacific Northwest music scene. They were known for their unique sound that combined elements of grunge, psychedelic rock, and blues, as well as the distinctive vocals of lead singer Mark Lanegan. Despite never achieving the same level of mainstream success as some of their peers like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, Screaming Trees are still regarded as one of the most influential bands of the 90s.
In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best Screaming Trees songs of all time. From their early punk-influenced days to their more polished later albums, Screaming Trees released a wide range of music that still resonates with fans today. We will be taking a look at some of their most iconic tracks, as well as some hidden gems that may have flown under the radar. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the band’s music, this list is sure to showcase some of the best that Screaming Trees had to offer.
1. Nearly Lost You
“Nearly Lost You” is arguably Screaming Trees’ most well-known song and is often cited as a classic example of the band’s sound. Released in 1992 as a single from their album “Sweet Oblivion,” the song features Mark Lanegan’s signature gritty vocals, complemented by jangly guitars and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics speak of a tumultuous relationship and the fear of losing someone, with Lanegan’s delivery conveying a sense of desperation and longing. The song’s catchy chorus and powerful instrumentation make it a standout track that has stood the test of time. “Nearly Lost You” remains a fan favorite and a staple of alternative rock radio, cementing its place as one of Screaming Trees’ most iconic songs.
2. Dollar Bill
“Dollar Bill” is a deep cut from Screaming Trees’ 1991 album “Uncle Anesthesia” that showcases the band’s versatility and experimental side. The song begins with a sparse guitar riff before building to a frenetic chorus that highlights the band’s ability to seamlessly shift between different dynamics. Mark Lanegan’s vocals convey a sense of frustration and disillusionment, while the lyrics touch on themes of greed and the corrupting influence of money. The song’s psychedelic bridge adds an element of unpredictability to the track, making it a standout on the album. Despite not being as well-known as some of Screaming Trees’ other songs, “Dollar Bill” demonstrates the band’s willingness to push boundaries and take risks in their music, further cementing their status as one of the most innovative bands of the 90s
3. Dying Days
“Dying Days” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the more introspective side of Screaming Trees’ music. Released in 1996 as a single from their album “Dust,” the song features Mark Lanegan’s soulful vocals over a melancholic acoustic guitar melody. The lyrics touch on themes of mortality and the passing of time, with a sense of resignation and acceptance permeating throughout. The song’s sparse instrumentation and understated production allow the emotions conveyed in the lyrics and Lanegan’s vocals to take center stage. “Dying Days” is a powerful and poignant track that demonstrates Screaming Trees’ ability to create emotionally resonant music that still resonates with fans to this day.
4. Shadow of the Season
“Shadow of the Season” is a dynamic and atmospheric track from Screaming Trees’ 1992 album “Sweet Oblivion.” The song features a driving rhythm section, layered guitars, and Mark Lanegan’s distinctive vocals, creating a sonic landscape that’s both expansive and intimate. The lyrics touch on themes of personal struggle and self-discovery, with Lanegan’s delivery imbuing the words with a sense of urgency and yearning. The song’s haunting outro, featuring a swirling wall of sound, adds an element of mysticism to the track that’s both captivating and unsettling. “Shadow of the Season” is a standout track that showcases Screaming Trees’ ability to create music that’s both emotionally resonant and musically innovative, solidifying their place as one of the most influential bands of the 90s.
5. Sworn and Broken
“Sworn and Broken” is a brooding and atmospheric track from Screaming Trees’ 1996 album “Dust.” The song features a subdued but driving rhythm section and a distorted guitar riff that creates a sense of tension and unease. Mark Lanegan’s vocals convey a sense of desperation and emotional turmoil, with lyrics touching on themes of isolation and betrayal. The song’s soaring chorus provides a release from the tension of the verses, creating a cathartic listening experience. “Sworn and Broken” is a standout track that showcases Screaming Trees’ ability to create music that’s both heavy and introspective, cementing their status as one of the most innovative bands of the 90s.
6. Bed of Roses
“Bed of Roses” is a standout track from Screaming Trees’ 1992 album “Sweet Oblivion.” The song features a driving rhythm section and a bluesy guitar riff that creates a sense of urgency and energy. Mark Lanegan’s raw and gritty vocals are on full display, conveying a sense of passion and desperation that’s palpable. The lyrics touch on themes of desire and obsession, with a sense of danger and recklessness permeating throughout. The song’s infectious chorus and memorable guitar solo make it a standout on the album and a fan favorite. “Bed of Roses” is a testament to Screaming Trees’ ability to create music that’s both visceral and memorable, cementing their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 90s.
7. Black Sun Morning
“Black Sun Morning” is a dynamic and powerful track from Screaming Trees’ 1991 album “Uncle Anesthesia.” The song features a driving rhythm section and a distorted guitar riff that creates a sense of urgency and aggression. Mark Lanegan’s vocals are raw and intense, conveying a sense of anger and frustration that’s palpable. The lyrics touch on themes of inner turmoil and self-destruction, with a sense of darkness and despair permeating throughout. The song’s explosive chorus and guitar solo make it a standout on the album and a fan favorite. “Black Sun Morning” is a testament to Screaming Trees’ ability to create music that’s both heavy and emotionally resonant, further solidifying their status as one of the most influential bands of the 90s.
8. Butterfly
“Butterfly” is a standout track from Screaming Trees’ 1996 album “Dust.” The song features a subdued but driving rhythm section and a delicate guitar melody that creates a sense of introspection and vulnerability. Mark Lanegan’s vocals are tender and heartfelt, conveying a sense of tenderness and longing that’s palpable. The lyrics touch on themes of love and loss, with a sense of melancholy and nostalgia permeating throughout. The song’s understated production and haunting backing vocals create a dreamlike atmosphere that’s both enchanting and haunting. “Butterfly” is a testament to Screaming Trees’ ability to create music that’s both emotionally resonant and musically innovative, further solidifying their status as one of the most influential bands of the 90s.
9. All I Know
“All I Know” is a standout track from Screaming Trees’ 1996 album “Dust.” The song features a laid-back groove and a bluesy guitar riff that creates a sense of ease and comfort. Mark Lanegan’s vocals are soulful and smooth, conveying a sense of warmth and sincerity that’s palpable. The lyrics touch on themes of personal growth and self-discovery, with a sense of optimism and hopefulness permeating throughout. The song’s understated production and tasteful backing vocals create a soothing and introspective atmosphere that’s both relaxing and inspiring. “All I Know” is a testament to Screaming Trees’ ability to create music that’s both emotionally resonant and musically innovative, further cementing their status as one of the most influential bands of the 90s.
10. Clairvoyance
“Clairvoyance” is a brooding and atmospheric track from Screaming Trees’ 1986 album “Clairvoyance.” The song features a driving rhythm section and a distorted guitar riff that creates a sense of tension and unease. Mark Lanegan’s vocals are raw and intense, conveying a sense of anger and frustration that’s palpable. The lyrics touch on themes of personal struggle and emotional turmoil, with a sense of darkness and desperation permeating throughout. The song’s explosive chorus and guitar solo make it a standout on the album and a fan favorite. “Clairvoyance” is a testament to Screaming Trees’ early abilities to create music that’s both heavy and introspective, further solidifying their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 80s and 90s.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
