RCK035 - Alice in Chains - Dirt

"Dirt" is the second studio album by American rock band Alice in Chains, released on September 29, 1992. The album is widely regarded as the band's magnum opus and a seminal work in the grunge genre. It features some of their most enduring tracks, including "Them Bones," "Rooster," "Down in a Hole," and "Would?".

The album delves into themes of addiction, pain, and personal turmoil, reflecting the struggles of lead vocalist Layne Staley and guitarist Jerry Cantrell. Staley's battle with heroin addiction is a central theme, with songs like "Junkhead" and "God Smack" addressing the subject candidly.

Commercially, "Dirt" was a success, peaking at number six on the Billboard 200 chart and remaining there for 102 weeks. It has been certified 5× platinum in the United States, underscoring its enduring impact.

Critically, the album received acclaim for its raw and honest portrayal of addiction and its heavy, brooding sound. Steve Huey of AllMusic described it as "a primal, sickening howl from the depths of Layne Staley's heroin addiction, and one of the most harrowing concept albums ever recorded."

"Dirt" has left a lasting legacy, influencing numerous bands and being recognized as one of the greatest albums of the 1990s. In 2017, Rolling Stone ranked it 26th on its list of the "100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time."