Soundgarden and Alice In Chains, prominent figures from the explosive Seattle scene in the early ’90s, share the spotlight despite their distinct stylistic differences. A musician, Steve Welsh, has undertaken the unique challenge of reinterpreting Soundgarden’s “Fell on Black Days” in the unmistakable style of Alice In Chains, capturing the essence with remarkable precision.
Debates around the “grunge” label often underscore the diverse sonic landscapes of the “Big 4” bands from that era, Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam. While their geographical roots aligned in Seattle, their musical identities diverged, sharing only a relaxed demeanor and anti-rock star attitudes, at least until they ascended to rock stardom themselves.
“Fell on Black Days,” a monumental track from Soundgarden’s 1994 album “Superunknown,” stands as a testament to Chris Cornell’s exploration of darkness and personal struggles. Notably, YouTuber and musician Steve Welsh meticulously recreated the song in the distinctive style of Alice In Chains, infusing it with the haunting narratives of depression and addiction reminiscent of Alice In Chains’ seminal album “Dirt.”
In the video titled “If Alice in Chains Wrote Fell on Black Days,” Welsh assumes responsibility for all instrumentation and vocals, embodying the twangy guitars inspired by Jerry Cantrell and delivering vocal harmonizations reminiscent of Cantrell and the late Layne Staley. The accuracy and attention to detail in this rendition drew admiration from viewers, with comments praising Welsh’s ability to flawlessly emulate Cantrell’s and Staley’s voices.
Observers lauded Welsh’s unique approach, commending him for capturing the nuances that define Alice In Chains’ style rather than replicating riffs verbatim. The video’s comments reveal appreciation for the artist’s creativity and originality. Welsh even embedded Easter eggs in the video, including references to Cantrell’s solo work, showcasing his profound familiarity with the members of Alice In Chains beyond their collective oeuvre.
This tribute not only pays homage to the iconic voices of Chris Cornell and Layne Staley but also underscores Welsh’s dedication to preserving and reimagining the legacy of these musical luminaries who are no longer with us.
Check out the video below.
