We’ve put together a list of what are not necessarily the best, but what we think are the most unique or memorable 90s covers from this past year. Let us know if you’ve got another one to add!
1) Umphrey’s McGee “Forty-Six & 2” (Tool)
The progressive Chicago jam band has pulled this one out before, along with songs from Pearl Jam, Smashing Pumpkins, Nine Inch Nails, and nail it every time. This summer at Red Rocks, the monster from Tool’s 1996 Enigma album reared its head, and lucky for us, a fan captured it all.
2) St Vincent “Possum Kingdom” (The Toadies)
During an in-studio performance at SiruisXM, St. Vincent gave an incredible version of The Toadies’ 1994 hit, “Possum Kingdom.” With just an acoustic guitar and her voice, she delivered both the energy and vocal range that the song requires. And while the song can only be heard randomly on SiriusXM at this point, we are hoping for an official release soon. In the meantime, you’ll have to enjoy this brief clip from Instagram user coolhandwu.
3) Living Colour “Blow Up The Outside World” (Soundgarden)
After Chris Cornell’s tragic passing in May, the Soundgarden, Temple of the Dog, and Audioslave covers just came pouring in as tributes. Among all those beautiful covers, rock/jazz/funk/just about everything fusion band Living Colour stood out with their rendition of Soundgarden’s 1996 single “Blow Up the Outside World.” Just one day after Cornell passed, the emotion was till raw with both and band and the Perth, Australia crowd. Singer Corey Glover even needed to collect himself at times. Excellent tribute.
4) Pearl Jam & Friends “Rockin in the Free World” (Neil Young)
Even though this was technically released on Neil Young’s “Freedom” album in November of 89, we are going to let this one slide as a 90s song. The lyrics, the muddy guitars, a classic example of how Neil got the term “Godfather of Grunge.” At the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame earlier this year, Pearl Jam was joined by members of Yes, Journey, and others for a super jam version of this rocker. This song is covered often by many, including Pearl Jam, but this one is particularly special.
5) Mixed Up Everything “Lightning Crashes” (Live)
Sometimes you get treated to a 90s classic in the most random of places. Like walking down a city mall, in Melbourne Australia. The Dhima Brothers, also known as Mixed Up Everything are a teenage sensation who rock 80s and 90s covers all over their homeland and now Europe. A pure 90s classic delivered with the emotion and precision it deserves. By kids who weren’t even born yet when the song came out on Live’s 1994 Throwing Copper album. Read more about the brothers here.
