Reviews (page 6 of 15)
Easy 5/5. One of the best live performances of all time captured on audio and video. Legendary performance by the band as well as some of the best covers of all time.
- David Bowie is my favorite artist of all time, but I do genuinely think their version of the man who sold the world is better.
I grew up listening to Nirvana....this album is one of the first CDs I owned in my life, which I still have. Today I "watched" the full video of this album instead, after all these years of just listening... still same emotion and goosebumps with "Where did you sleep last night". Solid 5+/5
punk attitude to have a lot of covers and not their smash hits... haunting vocals at times... all songs are very good, with an outstanding 'where did you sleep last night' as a closer...
Nirvana was always very melodic but the distortion and volume somewhat obscured it. By toning it down, this performance allows the emotion to shine through. This broadcast originally aired 4 months before Cobains suicide, but this album was released after. This makes the pain and straining in his voice even sadder.
One of my all time favorites, I fortunately have this on vinyl. Extremely unique acoustic grunge. Kurt Cobain's voice really shines here.
It’s countless how may time I listened to this album.
Admittedly, I’m a Boy Scout at heart. If anything comes within a football field away from controversy, I start looking for a way around it. This is how I’ve handled Nirvana all of these years. Their regular work is filled with words that usually make my butt pucker up…. Because of this I’ve skirted them without getting to know the meaning behind the lyrics. That said, I’m not going to bother doing the deep dig on their song history. This was a “made-for-tv” album, so it was toned down (from what I expected). Wow, are they fantastic! Love the guitars and the overall sound seems to lightly brush the psychedelic era. Very unique and catchy. I like this album enough to explore more of their work, knowing that the bad words are out there and it’ll be much heavier. A solid 5.
Wow. Ever heard the expression “don’t believe the hype”? Well on this occasion and for this album, believe it! I’m in no way Nirvana’s biggest fan, in fact, like most people I only have Nevermind so I was going into this as most people will I expect! I’ve heard the hype, the hyperbole that this is one of the greatest albums ever and I come away from it in absolute agreement. It’s exceptional.
One of the pivotal albums of my life
well obviously 100 stars as a dude born in 1982. this was our dark side of the moon
Let's be honest
I loved the Unplugged series from MTV. So pure, it really showed the talents of the musicians. And this one is great!
MTV unplugged has made some outstanding albums and this is one of them. Love the acoustic versions of their songs and their cover choices are great also. Favourite songs: - The man who sold the world - Plateau - Where did you sleep last night
this shit changed my life
A grunge classic
Best Nirvana release imo. Just a must listen from start to finish.
I knew I'd love it, but didn't realize how much. I ended up watching it on YouTube and it's just haunting.
I really love the complete lack of pretense these boys showed during the performance. It seemed all very genuine and sincere. I didn't realize that this didn't air on mtv until months after Cobain's death. It's easy to see why he was so loved by so many from that generation. Re: Kurt's guitar sound - it's not a sound that most acoustic players would strive for. And yet, it all works very well. Really good songs, and a great performance.
Ooooof. Boy did this define a generation. The pain in Curt's voice is palpable. Even if we didn't know he would kill himself months after this concert, we would have been concerned. Such simple music elevated to such profound heights. Still a little weak from listening to it.
Me gustaría que mi review acerca de este album fuera diseccionando cada parte que hace de este "desastre" uno de los mejores albumes de presentaciones en vivo jamás hecho en la historia. La voz de Kurt Cobain tan desgarradora y a la vez pacifica, el cello interpretado por Lori Goldston, los chistes junto el público, las bromas acerca de la desorganización de MTV, que hayan roto algunas reglas al usar guitarras con algo de distorsión, la brillante estrategia de mercadeo de darle a MTV un setlist falso y agregar covers junto con sus canciones menos populares de la época, hacen de esta presentación la versión acústica algo especial e intima que muy pocas bandas pueden lograr en la actualidad. Le guste a quien le guste y al que no, también, siempre será recordada de esa forma, porque primero lo hizo Nirvana. 10/10.
Top 3 albumes en vivo de todos los tiempos
Nirvana - Unplugged in New York This album is a top 5 album for me. It spoke to me at a time when I began to expand my musical tastes. I already owned and listened to Nevermind (which blew my mind) but knowing that Kurt and the band said we'll do your little acoustic show but don't expect to hear "Teen Spirit" or other hits was a fucking baller move. They were the biggest band in the world and used this time to showcase songs and bands that influenced them. Plus you get to hear Kurt between songs. It sounds like he's having a great time with his friends. I like listening to this album as it's a snapshot of a band having a great time. This album introduced me to the Vaselines and Meat Puppets (or at least their songs). And their songs are my favorites on this album: Jesus Doesn't Want Me for a Sunbeam. Plateau, and Lake of Fire. When you connect to an album, song or band, it's like nothing you've ever experienced. It's like finding a religion that speaks directly to your head and heart. Thanks Kurt for putting it all out there during this performance. 5/5
Exceptional album - sounds a lot like bedroom recordings of thom yorke (which I love). I liked it much more than I thought I would
So special we got to hear these songs like this before Kurt's passing. This piece is truly a showcase of his talents as a songwriter, and of his wonderful taste and championing of other artists as can be heard in their cover song selections. Nirvana and Kurt Cobain are often unfairly quarantined to a moment in time, due his passing and due to the sudden blast of media attention around his image and style that spawned thousands of copy-cat artists, posers, and a whole moment, perpetuated by MTV I might add, that often overshadows the actual songs this band played and this human being wrote. Ironically, MTV also gave us one of the only sonic records of those songs stripped from their context and presented somewhere outside all that noise. Naked. And it showcases how amazing this group really was. In some ways, this is the best Nirvana record. And of the great live albums.
Truly a classic
Yes, nineties royalty for reason. So good to listen to this album. Well, aside from the very scary “Polly Wants a Cracker.” Which is catchy but definitely a kidnapping situation. Poor polly. I hope that they catch Kurt Cobain. The David Bowie and Led Belly covers are iconic.
This recording was an amazing listen, I found myself not caring when the first song played over again, and wound up giving it 3 full listens yesterday. It's intimate & authentic.
This will be a good one... And it was. It's been a while since I listened to that one. A clear 5. Every track is brilliant. J Marcus joining was brilliant. Covers were brilliant. Left on stuck a high note with where did you sleep last night.
Best live album ever?
While I was a little too young to appreciate this as it happened, I remember the reruns on MuchMusic when I was a kid. I think my brother had taped it at some point, too. Even to a 7-9 year old, it was known that Nirvana was a big deal. I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this. Nevermind is obviously a masterpiece and I don't always like alternate versions of songs I already love. That said, this too is a masterpiece. The acoustic format lends itself to a clearer, cleaner sound where Kurt's vocals really shine. Kicking myself that I didn't listen to this before!
Classic!
Unplugged in New York stands as a haunting and stripped-bare testament to Nirvana's raw honesty and musical prowess. The album captures the band in an intimate setting, showcasing their ability to deliver emotionally charged performances without the distortion and chaos of their typical electric sound. Where Did You Sleep Last Night emerges as one of the album's standout moments, and easily one of the best covers ever recorded. Throughout the album, Kurt Cobain's vocals resonate with a haunting sincerity, laying bare his inner turmoil and vulnerability. The acoustic arrangements breathe new life into Nirvana's catalogue, offering fresh perspectives on familiar songs. The simplicity of the arrangements only serves to amplify the emotional impact of the songs. showcase their raw talent and authenticity, and Nirvana's performance on this album epitomises the essence of the Unplugged series. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 9 STAND OUT TRACK - Where Did You Sleep Last Night?
actually listened to this millions of times. Think it's darn good so jus gonna give it 6
I've listened to this many album many, many times over the years. For some reason, it's hard to count it as one of my favourites simply because it's a live album. But if we're talking just favourite albums, this one is right up there. I remember being blown away by the second half where they go into covers - Nirvana just has a way of making any song sound like theirs. Kurt said that this was a direction he wanted to go to musically and I just wish we had a chance to hear it.
Inspiring
Live greatest hits of Nirvana classics. I’m not to well informed about this band, I feel like this is a great starter album
Absolute classic with mainstream success. Great composers and original versions are even better
5 stars just for Where Did You Sleep Last Night. Such a great end to the album. Also loved the interaction between the band throughout the album. Also loved The Man Who Sold the World and Something in the Way. Didn't love some of the other tracks and wouldn't describe myself as a big Nirvana fan but this is a great album.
I never lost control...
I wish Courtney didn’t have him unalived.
All time favorite
Incredible as always
The best MTV Unplugged. I prefer this version of Nirvana over its normal studio releases. Feels a lot more personal.
This is one of those albums that feels like it's always been with me. It really shows Nirvana's range as artists. It's just sad and beautiful and powerful the whole way through. Having the Meat Puppets do some of the songs off their second album was a stroke of genius (as well as being the best those songs have ever sounded). Finishing the set with Where Did You Sleep Last Night was perfect 5/5
I’d heard/seen bits and pieces of this album before but never listened or watched it all the way through. Lives up to its classic status, Cobain’s talent/charisma/intensity is undeniable. Need to go watch it now.
4.7 The biggest takeaway is that the songs that are covered turned into the most prominent/popular versions. like, the Meat puppets covered the nirvana version of their own song.
its nirvana man
This was incredibly good. I had high expectations and it still cleared them easily. I generally don't love live albums, I find it a little annoying to listen to them usually. This is obviously a little different since it's live in-studio (but was recorded in one take), but this is where the live recording can shine. I didn't even watch the video version, but the emotion just comes through so well. Kurt Cobain's voice is just so good with the stripped back sound here. It almost has this folk-y sound throughout, and I think he could have gone this direction with his career too and still crushed it. The Bowie cover is awesome, and the last song is just a perfect conclusion. Also an interesting choice to not include "Smells Like Teen Spirit" on this, I think I kind of like the decision. I don't have a ton else to say about it. He died 5 months after this (which probably contributed to its popularity quite a bit), and it's a little more striking listening to it with that context. It's beautiful nonetheless, and I'm glad it exists. Favorite song: The Man Who Sold The World Other: About A Girl, Come As You Are, Jesus Doesn't Want Me For A Sunbeam, Pennyroyal Tea, Dumb, Polly, On A Plain, Something In The Way, Plateau, Oh Me, Lake Of Fire, All Apologies, Where Did You Sleep Last Night 2/26/24
I'm usually not a fan of love albums, but this one is great
Hard not to like this, amazing from start to finish. Especially with the covers. This albums helped me discover the Meat Puppets and the Vaselines which I am very thankful for.
Im very glad this record exists
where did you sleep last night? by lead belly, covered by nirvana is my top 5 favorite songs ever!!!! such a great album with the best covers!(:
FUCKING CLASSIC. Some of the best covers on here. "In the Pines" always gives me chills
5/5! (favourite album probably?) Best Track: The Man Who Sold the World
Love this, love this
For a live/compilation album, this is exceptional. Nirvana showcased their range while paying homage to some less popular artists that inspired them. The last notes of "Where did you sleep last night" is especially haunting given that this was the last recording (for an album) before Kurt died.
Recorded just months before his suicide, Cobain and Co. pour their hearts out in this performance. Not in their usual way (loud and screaming) but in a dark, sludgy, and even playful way. Here they skip most of their hits and instead opt to rework some more obscure tracks (both their own and quite a few covers). The tame setting (in which our front man drinks copious amounts of tea) may not get you jumping or head-banging, but what it lacks in palpable energy it gains in emotional tension. Tension that grows ten-fold knowing this would end up being one of Cobain's last performances before his untimely death. 5/5
Im usually harder on live records because so many miss the mark, where others give proof of their incredible talent. This one is the latter. this album captures magic and the essence of cobains style. It reminds me of when Rick Reuben let Johnny cash express himself through his take on classic covers that are significant to him. Only other live albums that rival this one for me is Neil young unplugged and Eric Clapton
Truly a great album without a single filler track. The Nirvana originals sound great in this format, a testament to Kurt Cobain’s song writing. Unexpected cover songs were expertly chosen and performed very well including Man Who Sold the World which is one my favorite covers of all time .
An old favorite
I’ve listened this a thousand times, never get tired. It’s an unbelievable live performance
Good to hear this. Brings me back.
Favourite tracks: where did you sleep last night?; come as you are; plateau; the man who sold the world; jesus don't want me for a sunbeam; about a girl
I'm amazed how familiar this still is, after what must have been at least 20 years of not listening to it. Years in which I've sometimes wondered if maybe I had not liked Grunge as much as I thought for the music itself but more for how it had put an end - for me at least - to goofy theme metal and dressed up guys with stupid hairdos. And then how much I actually like(d) Nirvana. But I very happily returned to this album today.
Amazing album all the way through. One of the best live performances I’ve ever heard
That drummer guy is good
Ya empezamos potente
Classic stuff
Love the unplugged emotional versions of interesting songs
Acoustic Nirvana is really good. 10/10
Iconic
5.0 + I still feel a pang when I hear Kurt sing the first bars of “About A Girl.” There’s no way I can objectively evaluate this album. It reminds of what I loved about being 14.
I was a fan back in the Nirvana heyday, and possibly have been exposed to this set either thru MTV or something else, but wow what an amazing live set! I understand that some people can love or hate it, and can see both perspectives, but I really enjoyed the listen (nostalgia? Taste?). Nice curation of songs that doesn’t rely too heavily on Nirvanas smash hits, and also covers that highlight their talent within the acoustic space. Cobain’s haunting and soulful singing works just as well “unplugged”
This album is just as beautiful and compelling as it was 30 years ago. The arrangements are so delicate and supple. His voice is just dripping with understated emotional resonance. It reveals their songs as what they really are, not just aggressive paroxysms of angst, but tortured folk songs wrought by generations of trauma and exhalation. When I was like 13, I met a conspiracy theorist who thought the cia killed Kurt after the unplugged performance, because he revealed that his music was more than just loud, aggressive, angst and he was about to lead his listeners to something more socially conscious and truly revolutionary. That’s probably not actually true, but I feel like there’s some grain of truth in the idea, especially given how rage and rebellion would become so completely commodified and intensified in the ensuing half decade.
I'm growing gradually fonder of Nirvana the more I listen to them. Big thumbs up. Will listen again and it sounds incredible for being live + the interlude comentaries from Kobain really add a nice charm to it. 8.7/10
Outstanding
5 stars no notes
Takes massive cojones to show up, play exactly one of your hits, disregard the whole purpose of this thing (seriously just count how many times Kurt's guitar has an effect applied on it) and rule so hard that MTV spends years trying to capture the magic again, only to utterly fail. It's hard to pick a highlight, almost the whole album could be one really. If I really had to pick, I'd go with Jesus Doesn't Want Me for a Sunbeam, Pennyroyal Tea, and of course The Man Who Sold The World.
Very strong performance with so much emotion and influence. I was on the fence of 4 and 5, but then they absolutely smashed 'Where Did You Sleep Last Night' out of the park. Probably going to be one of my more benevolent 5 stars, but I just had to give it.
A classic
Pedazo de álbum
The acoustic versions of these songs are beautiful.
So many great songs and the unplugged is a good change up. 5/5
Much prefer the live Nirvana albums, and I think this one just beats Wishkah due to the amazing covers.
Man, what a performance. Kurt is both incredibly low-key and absolutely electrifying here, giving out such a soulful, beautiful performance that must've run his throat ragged. The more acoustic covers of both Nirvana songs and also others' tracks are also great (even if you can tell Kurt and co. snuck a few amplifiers onstage) and there's just so a dry, "no fucks given" kinda attitude amongst everyone onstage. Favorite tracks on here were their covers of Bowie's "The Man Who Sold The World" and Lead Belly's "Where Did You Sleep Last Night." honorable mention goes to that brief cover of sweet home alabama
An instant classic in my eyes. I can't really have any complaints with this album at all. Just a collection of really good acoustic covers of Nirvana bangers.
Singer sounds super sad, hope he's doing better now.
For some reason this has been the hardest review I've written yet. I just can't seem to find the right words to describe how I feel about this album. So maybe I shouldn't say anything. Just listen to the album, all the way through. Right to the scream at the very end of "Where Did You Sleep Last Night?", where the whole band drops out like they're shocked to hear it, leaving him to sing the last few words completely unaccompanied. Chills. Every time. And I'll probably look back at what I wrote just now and wished I'd said something else, but, honestly, that moment says more than I ever could.
I almost cried to Where Did You Sleep Last Night. Fucking incredible.
I am in a sort of stunned silence. I know Nirvana’s big hits, but I don’t think those big hits really represent the true spirit of the band. Smells Like Teen Spirit is obviously nowhere to be found on this album, and it doesn’t feel missed at all. Kurt Cobain and the rest of Nirvana wanted to just be themselves, jam out, and do some of their favorites, big hits be damned. The fact that half of this record is covers is a testament to how little they cared about the commercialism of it all. There were times where I kinda just zoned out to let the music carry me, but I think that’s the underlying point of Nirvana as a band. It’s very easy to understand their biggest hits, which is where I clearly was (and still am, really), but to understand Nirvana, and to more aptly explore Kurt Cobain, I feel like this album just gives a lot of insight into why Nirvana has endured this long after his passing. I’m sure there’s even more answers on their studio records, but there’s just something about that last song, and the way everyone literally held onto his every breath that just explains why he was so captivating to so many people without a single word. I really don’t think there’s a flaw in this album – I’m going to give it a 5, but something tells me that I deeply need to go back to the original studio versions of each song in here that I didn’t know to really appreciate these more stripped-down versions even more.
I truly believe that Nirvana is one of the most famous/highly-rated groups who aren’t overrated. I listened to this on the way home after a brutal few days of work on barely and sleep and was moved to tears at multiple points. I listened to a lot of this album back in the day but never connected to it, I just would superficially enjoy the songs at surface level. For a Grunge band (or maybe THE Grunge band considering their stature in the genre) Nirvana’s music stands out as being particularly introspective on Kurt’s part, and hearing his music stripped down in this context gives what feels like a much deeper understanding of him as a person. Even beyond the original songs, his unconventional choices for covers and the passion he puts into the vocals on them will easily send shivers down the spine. The original songs I like on here take on new meaning in this setting, and a few of them I feel even eclipse the studio versions. I know it’s not just me either, because listening to the crowd reactions was very telling. Something special was happening in that room. The little pops of recognition when a Nirvana hit would start were fun, and the there was silence and contemplation. When they would start a Meat Puppets song nobody knew (Oh Me really stands out), there was nothing until the end, where everyone loses their shit because it was so good. This performance took place a few months before he took his own life, and the album itself is a posthumous release. It’s such a shame, especially seeing how his bandmate Dave Grohl would go on to own popular rock music for years after Kurt’s death. The mind reels imagining the two of them teaming up for years and bringing out the best in each other. At any rate, this is a deeply emotional listen and does something that only music can do for me; Make me feel a connection to a man who died when I was an infant. Top tracks: Come As You Are, Jesus Doesn’t Want Me For A Sunbeam, The Man Who Sold The World, Dumb, Something In The Way, Oh Me, Lake Of Fire, Where Did You Sleep Last Night?
I mean I’m familiar with this album by tracks but I’ve never sat down and listened to the whole thing in one sitting. Loved it more. I know Polly was a single and all but it felt weird having people cheer for that song while knowing what it’s about (queasy emoji just in case this doesn’t pop up 🥴).
I love grunge and I love acoustic, so what should I say. I love this album!
Up front I should mention that I have listened to this hundreds of times and owned it since it came out. I know all the lyrics and for a lot of the covers, I heard it here before hearing the original. Overall, this a no-skip album that has some amazing tracks and it only gets better with the interludes and the video accompaniment. Track by track: 1 - Great track. 2 - At least as good as it's non-acoustic counterpart (and that's saying something) 3 - I think this is the weakest track for me. I took a quick detour to listen to the Vaselines version. I like the Nirvana version better. I think this will be one amazing throughline in the album; that the version on this album is as good or better. 4 - Several of these songs were the first time I had heard them (shame on me). I love this track. The cello and how it plays with the lead guitar... incredible use of the acoustic instrumentation. 5 - <3 the chatter. It's almost like we are at rehearsal with them. The song itself is not the strongest on the album but it is never a skip and Kurt somehow pulls it off solo. 6 - This track just comes right in grooving. The cello again is really playing a key role. The rhythm is at the perfect level. Great track. 7 - Kurt saying Polly is essentially the same song as Dumb cracks me up. I'll certainly take more of both of these. The bassline of this one really drives everything as the drums are almost non-existent. 8 - Just a great track. Really rocks out towards the end. 9 - A personal favorite. I don't know anything about tempo but it almost feels like everything comes in just a little late. Somehow it adds to the feeling of dragging and longing. 9a - I forgot we had guest musicians on this next track! Oh my... the shenanigans crack me up! 10 - Such a grooooooove. You can tell Kurt is struggling vocally on this track but somehow it makes it better? I went to the Meat Puppets version which is also nice but I'd put them at about equal. 11 - Glad the Meat Puppets are hanging out for another of their tracks. This one isn't quite the groove as the last one but I still like it. I also confirmed I like the Nirvana version better. Gotta give props to the original artist on "Formulate infinity deep inside me" such a good line. Am I going to leave this listen and need to seek out more Meat Puppets?? 12 - This one is special. The strained vocals, the groove, the little playful guitar riffs... 13 - Probably the best song on the album? It is certainly one of the most memorable for me. 14 - This is another one that is just fine. I'm not skipping it but I'm not seeking it out.
v. good. no notes
Brilliant
Growing up in Seattle in the 90s, this album was everywhere, almost a rite of passage. I know most every cadence of it, even Kurts dialogue and banter. Some of it surprised me - I didn't remember anything about a harp tuner, and as a kid I didn't really put together how odd the collection of songs were on this album. What a treat to have an excuse to revisit it as an adult. To pay attention to Kurt Cobain's voice, be surprised that there's a cello in there, and just genuinely appreciate a true masterpiece that we are so lucky exists. Shout out to these liner notes from insecticide. If any of you in any way hate homosexuals, people of different color, or women, please do this one favor for us—leave us the fuck alone! Don't come to our shows and don't buy our records.
The Nirvana unplugged set, the infamous Nirvana unplugged set, the anti-unplugged while driving MTV producers mad as fuck Nirvana unplugged set, the oh but he's really plugged in and heres some feedback Nirvana unplugged set, the play *anything* but your biggest hits Nirvana unplugged set, the put some shine on the Meat Puppets Nirvana unplugged set, the WTF cover of a fucking Vaselines song and also do a little Bowie and end with a Lead Belly song and there will be no encores Nirvana unplugged set... Bittersweet, but emphasis on the sweet, because this is Kurt Cobain is, by far, at his sweetest here. Far removed from the frenetic live shows Nirvana would usually perform, there would be no diving into the drum set on this show. Instead it would be the swansong of an icon who would be gone less than 6 months later. It's a great live album, the best of the released Unplugged albums, and I could listen to this and shiver the whole night through...
Surprising how good Nirvana’s music is when stripped to its essence.
Have always loved this so much, it’s such a special live record. Pretty much no hits, all these weirdo covers. I waffled between 4 and 5 while listening to it, and after it was over I decided that the tipping point is the moment where Cobain absolutely botches that big note in the Bowie song. That’s so cool. Come on. 5 stars.
Classic.
Magnificent!
I’m not much of a Nirvana or grunge fan. This album is fantastic. The one critiscm I have is the electric riff on The Man Who Sold the World.
great raw live record. meat puppets. bowie.
I need this on vinyl
te quiero mucho kurt cobain 9/10
I find this album almost impossible to fairly rate. How do you put a score on the swan song of the most iconic artist of the 90s? Knowing any bit of context about this album makes it pretty impossible to listen objectively. That being said, it does feel like this album deserves every bit of it's legendary status on the music alone, even if you try to ignore the shadow of Kurt Cobain's death. The performances are nearly perfect, walking the line between accessible and subversive (which to be fair is a line that Nirvana could walk in a way few others could). What really sticks out are the song choices. Yes, there's a lot of tracks that even a casual fan can pick out immediately, yet some of the most recognizable tracks (Teen Spirit especially) are nowhere to be seen. Also the abundance of covers probably threw off some people upon release, but really help this to feel like an essential Nirvana album instead of your favorite tracks on acoustic guitar. Lastly, there's so much personality in the arrangements and banter between songs. Kurt has to be one of the most darkly comedic artists in popular music, and this is a great example. I still don't think a straight rating is really fair, but I have talked myself into an easy 5 and we'll let it rest there.
Eines der besten Alben jemals, auch wenn Kurt Cobain ziemlich zugedröhnt war.
I love these Unplugged performances. Only thing close today are tiny desk concerts but those are much shorter and less produced. Cobain's cynicism and self judgement is reflected here so plainly. It's a look both into the band having fun together but also what his demons might have been. Grohl playfully giving support in the background whenever Cobain falls into his self deprecation has a certain melancholy to it. The music itself is also incredibly good. The concerns at the time around song selection were easily warranted but having a breadth of non singles and covers works so well from a longevity perspective.
Testing the audience’s patience with 6 covers (3 Meat Puppets ones in a row!). So incredible and points to what could have been.
Hit me in the feels
Song: The Man Who Sold The World First of all, this is a crazy coincidence: yesterday, I reviewed Meat Puppets II and noticed a lot of reviews mentioning Nirvana's covers of Meat Puppets songs. I log on today and see the exact Nirvana album with the Meat Puppets covers. However, I kind of hated Meat Puppets, so I went with the Bowie cover instead, which was incredible. The vocals carried a lot of emotion, but the standout to me was the instrumental—especially the outro. Just stunning.
Comments: One of my favorite live albums of all-time!
Great album, one of my favorites!
THE GREATEST UNPLUGGED ALBUM OF ALL TIME!!
Mi unplugged favorito de la historia. Grandes versiones de clásicos de nirvana y covers completamente icónicos
One of my favorite records from college days. A prolific post-punk band with an artful dissonance then takes the stage for MTV Unplugged and sets the world alight. Iconic covers, clarified versions of their own songs, and clever banter between songs makes this a must have - particularly if you watched it when it aired.
One of my favorite albums
1a
Genial!
I’m trying to be stingy with my 5s and didn’t want to be like Tom Smykowski and jump to conclusions when this came up…but come on man. This is great. I was on a grunge kick a few months back and listened to a lot of Nirvana so this is already heavily in rotation. Crazy to think this was filmed Nov 1993 and Kurt died Apr 1994. To Tim’s point about covers, their version of The Man Who Sold The World is iconic and took that song to another level. And I love how that is a distorted guitar is on an “unplugged” album. Greatness.
It’s been forever since I’ve listened to this album, and frankly not sure I ever listened start to finish. Wow, what a trip down memory lane! Hit me right in the feels. Nirvana’s last album and recorded five months before Cobain’s death. Amazing mix of covers, many of which are clearly better than the original, as well as great renditions of their own songs. Stripped down, but still captures all the vibe of the band. I absolutely love Where Did You Sleep Last Night as the last track. Haunting. Raw energy in Kurt’s vocals. Simply great all around.
I return to this MTV Unplugged album at least once a year, even though I rarely ever listen to any studio albums by Nirvana any longer. The grit and rough vocals, the sparseness of the instrumentation, and the somber mood fits in with so much of my listening habits, that it has just become a staple. I think we could imagine an Unplugged where all the albums where Nirvana's, and it was a real "Greatest Hits" or "Best Of," but the covers on this album are part of the "secret sauce" that I believe always elevated it, as it essentially creates content you can't get on their albums. In other words, this album is not just an "acoustic versions of songs you'd rather listen to the originals of."
I was honestly scared to listen to it straight through because I thought maybe I’d be a little less into it in which case I would have been very bummed. But good news! It was one of those no need to worry things because this is still amazing and I love it.
Incredibly intimate show, Kurt's voice is great, it is moving and raw and the whole band plays perfectly. A great version of a great album.
Such an unusual presentation of the band. Highlights are: the power of KC voice, versatility of DG percussion and backing vocals, eclectic song choices.
Eine entscheidender Meilenstein meines musikalischen Werdeganges :-)
Always a classic at this point.
WHAAAAAA ugh 5 stars!!! Man that brought back a lot of memories. I love this album.
uno de los favoritos en la vida...
The greatest live record ever.
I live in Seattle. Close friends went to high school with the Mudhoney guys. My neighbor has been on a whole ton of records, bands you'd probably recognize. I'll admit several things... I appreciated what Nirvana did, in terms of putting Seattle really on the map, and creating some really great music. That said, they were never really my cup of tea. For local bands, I like Soundgarden better, if you are willing to stretch the definition of local, Alice In Chains. That said, those bands would never have gotten promotion and attention if it wasn't for Nirvana. I've always like the Unplugged format and particularly appreciate the Neil Young and Bob Dylan entries in the series -- artists that aren't really super approachable because of a large catalog and long history -- in a format that is more interesting than any typical compilation. Nirvana Unplugged is at times brilliant, particularly because of the cover tunes. I have to give it five stars simply because it's the best Nirvana album, in my opinion, and they definitely made a mark on an era of music.
Combien de fois ai-je pu écouter cet album, même si aujourd'hui j'en vois un peu plus les limites. Je n'ai jamais été fan de Nirvana, et au final ça se confirme avec cet album loin de leur style habituel et avec presque la moitié de reprises, dont certains des meilleurs titres ("The man who sold the world", "Where did you sleep last night"). C'est vraiment et surtout le marqueur d'une époque, à la fois personnelle et sur le plan artistique, une photo d'une industrie de la musique qui n'existe plus. Le grunge est mort, le rock c'est pour les vieux, MTV n'est plus ce qu'elle était, plus personne n'écoute de cassette en boucle jusqu'à les détruire et aujourd'hui Nirvana est avant tout une décoration de T-shirt. Monde de merde.
perfect
Excellent album, awesome cover songs
What can I say? Every second of it is the anthem of my misunderstood teenagehood.
Fucking classic
You love Nirvana so much? Go ahead, name 5 of their albums
The original songs are better. Great band but rip Kurt cobain.
considering this is a live album makes it even better
Love it!
I mean I love this album
I’m not usually into live albums but this is just sublime. Cobain’s voice. The whole thing is beautiful and the Bowie song is possibly my favourite cover of all time
This is as good as it gets for live albums, the fact that a handful of songs on here are more popular than the original versions is a testament to how phenomenal this record is. Would even go as far to say that they surpassed Bowie’s version of The Man Who Sold the World. I love how the songs are meant to be “unplugged” yet the guitar sound and effects were clearly running through an amp. That’s pretty forgivable especially when you find out that they filmed the show in a single take.
Solid album from start to finish. Really good versions of really good songs. Even if the rest of it stunk, the scream at the end of Where Did You Sleep Last Night would make this a 5-star album - one of the three best vocals ever…from anyone.
This is prime NIRVANA and prime KURT COBAIN!!! (Also I love Dave Grohl with his turtleneck living his best life as lesbian librarian). 10/10
The best renditions and performances of some of their best songs. Truly as close to perfection that you can get when you want to listen to some Nirvana songs. I am slightly confused as to why it's here since most of these songs are from other albums or artists. I understand they're a different version but still think it messes with the spirit of this project. Give me the Metallica greatest hits album next. (Alice in Chains Unplugged is still the best tho) 10/10
This is my favorite version of Nirvana. It’s live but sounds so crisp. It’s acoustic but really elevates all the songs they play. It’s mainly covers but they are my favorite versions of these songs. I have watched this front to back at least a hundred times. Dave Grohl looking like a midwife weasel in a turtle neck. Kurt bantering with the audience. Krist’s bass stank face. Pat’s feet and happy demeanor. This album is best consumed by actually watching it. It really is a great experience that even people who don’t like Nirvana I think would enjoy. 10/10
Still an all-time favorite after all these years.
legend
Lots of all time classics of Alternative Rock.
Great way to start my 1001 albums journey. Made me remember why I liked this album so much.
By the strength of “Where Did You Sleep Last Night”, this deserves 5 stars.
Absolutely brilliant
had this CD in high school, such good memories 😭
Excellent, and, if I recall correctly, the start of a wildly successful series!
Masterpiece.
I might consider listening to more live albums if every live album has this kind of quality and consistency in its tracks.
This is the music I told you about
I go way back with this album - I loved Nirvana back in the day (early 90's) so this is very much revisting-a-much-loved-album for me. Let the nostalgia commence! Ok, let's stick tot he music - I love Kurts voice now more than I ever did back in the day. I find his intuitive melodic and harmonic choices so interesting and unusual, the same for his guitar playing. Also, the rasp in his voice - so present in this recording and such a common thing throughout thrash, metal, etc. today - so pre-emptive of todays thrash and metal, and seemingly effortless on his part (although I recenlty learned that he often blew his voice out, so I guess 'effotless' isn't quite right). It's a fucking great album by a great band. I'm biased.. but only coz they won my heart back in the day - so they've earned my highest rating. This was an easy one to rate for me.
Best of the best
i fw this
I kept debating whether it was a 4 or a 5 but bumped it up to 5 because it was the absolute right soundtrack for the mood I was in. It was cloudy with sprinkling rain and I’m walking Dylan after she’s been in a fussy mood. It just felt like a day where I really hated the surburban life and felt like I got tricked into it.
I've known and loved this album for years, it is absolutely timeless with consistently great songs throughout. The covers made me discover several artists when I first listened to it in my teenage years.
OUTSTANDING
The end of a beautiful career that could have been a great new beginning.
From the timeless opener, to the gutwrenching finale, this performance is packed to the brim with heart, soul, and it's as touching with it's beauty, as it is mesmerizing with it's simplicity. 5 camomiles out of 5 🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
This I still remember where I was the first time I heard smells like teen spirit. This band was the soundtrack to my middle team years. I love this album.
great
My first album ever. Love it so much, beginning to end.
Released seven months after the death of Kurt Cobain, this is the Unplugged which looms over all others and for good reason. It’s flawed, emotionally resonant, strips great songs down to their formidable bones, and stands as a last flowering of one of the most important bands of the decade.
Lyrics: The lyrics in "MTV Unplugged In New York" showcase Cobain's poetic and introspective songwriting. Stripped of the distortion and aggression found in their studio albums, the vulnerability of Cobain's lyrics becomes more evident. Songs like "All Apologies" and "Pennyroyal Tea" take on new dimensions in this acoustic setting, revealing a raw emotional intensity. The haunting performance of "Where Did You Sleep Last Night" is especially notable, as Cobain's anguished vocals bring a visceral depth to the traditional folk song. Pros: The acoustic setting allows for a closer examination of Cobain's lyrical brilliance and emotional depth. Cons: Some listeners may miss the energy and aggression of Nirvana's electric performances. Music: The acoustic reinterpretations of Nirvana's songs on this album showcase the band's versatility and musicality. Cobain's guitar work is more intricate, and the absence of heavy distortion allows for a clearer appreciation of his melodic sensibilities. The addition of instruments like the cello and accordion enhances the sonic palette, creating a more nuanced and textured sound. The stripped-down approach brings attention to the band's dynamic interplay, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of Dave Grohl and Krist Novoselic. Pros: The acoustic arrangements breathe new life into familiar songs, showcasing Nirvana's musical depth. Cons: Some fans accustomed to the band's electric sound may find the acoustic renditions less powerful. Production: The production of "MTV Unplugged In New York" is marked by its simplicity and authenticity. The live, one-take nature of the recording captures the spontaneity of the performance, preserving the intimate connection between the band and the audience. The decision to include the banter and interactions between songs adds to the album's authenticity, providing insight into Cobain's personality and the band's camaraderie. Pros: The raw, unfiltered production captures the genuine spirit of Nirvana's live performance. Cons: The audio quality may not match the polished standards of studio recordings, but this is intentional and contributes to the album's charm. Themes: The themes explored in "MTV Unplugged In New York" align with the overarching themes in Nirvana's body of work—alienation, introspection, and the complexities of human emotion. The acoustic setting amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics, making themes of disillusionment and longing more palpable. The selection of covers, including David Bowie's "The Man Who Sold the World" and Lead Belly's "Where Did You Sleep Last Night," adds depth to the thematic exploration, demonstrating Nirvana's eclectic influences. Pros: The acoustic format enhances the emotional resonance of the album's themes. Cons: Some listeners may find the overall mood too somber, missing the balance found in Nirvana's studio albums. Influence: "MTV Unplugged In New York" has had a lasting influence on the music industry, solidifying the popularity of the MTV Unplugged series and inspiring countless artists to explore acoustic performances. The album's success also contributed to the renewed appreciation of Nirvana's catalog, introducing their music to a new generation. The intimate, live nature of the recording has become a benchmark for capturing the essence of a band in a stripped-down setting. Pros: The album's influence extends beyond Nirvana, impacting the way live performances are conceptualized and executed. Cons: The success of the album is, in part, tied to the tragic circumstances surrounding Cobain's death, which may overshadow its musical impact for some listeners. In conclusion, "MTV Unplugged In New York" stands as a remarkable entry in Nirvana's discography, offering a unique perspective on the band's music and showcasing their versatility. The album's pros lie in its intimate lyrics, musical depth, authentic production, thematic resonance, and enduring influence. However, some may see the cons in the album's departure from the band's electric roots and the melancholic atmosphere that permeates the recording. Ultimately, this live album is a testament to Nirvana's enduring legacy and their ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level, even in an unplugged setting.
What can be said about this album that hasn’t been said before? Nirvana was at the peak of popularity. Kurt was a pop martyr at the time. Although unexpected and lacking the biggest hits, the setlist was a perfect amalgamation of pieces that served the concert format, covers that payed tribute to his both underground and mainstream influences; it was vulnerably perfect. I think what hit harder here was timing. One can imagine when this concert was broadcasted by MTV for the first time just weeks after Kurt’s passing. It must be devastating. Precious-almost a religious experience- but devastating.
Top Tier
JAA! Dit album is perfect, hoef deze niet te luisteren voor 5 sterren haha
ja Nirvana is geweldig, leuk dat het een live album is en dus nummers in elkaar overvloeien zegmaar (als in het commentaar en background noice enzo, niet de nummers zelf) Vind wel de drie nummers “about a girl”, “come as you are” en “something in the way” beter niet live eerlijk gezegd, dus de originele nummers gewoon (die gaan wat harder of sneller ofzo idk). Verder zijn “dumb” en “polly” wel echt top in dit album. Herkende de nummers “lake of fire” en “where did you sleep last night” vaag. Kende verder geen nummers, maar wel nice allemaal. Vond “plateau” ook leuk!! Dit album is een 4,8 voor mij!!
As my brother says, no need to revisit this one. Greatest unplugged album ever.
Girl what are you on I've already listened to this
It's impressive that this is live and unplugged. Say whatever you want about pros and cons of grunge but Cobain is a hell of a singer. His cover of Man who Sold the World is so strong and there's a ton of really raw songs. Great album to include in a 1,001 list. The context of it makes it legendary but it stands on its own without that.
I haven't spent much time listening to Nirvana, except the unavoidable. I was looking forward to it, but starting with the unplugged feels like the wrong way to go. Great album and great for a live album. Opening track to me had that Beatles sound that I always connected to Nirvana. What is unique is the drama Kurt Cobain puts into his vocals. Something in the Way - this song is so undeniably good. The composition, putting those strings on it. Plateau - reminds me of a classic cowboy song. Oh Me - has country vibes too but mix in some blues. Lake of Fire - Speaking of the Blues. Gospel Blues feel. Okay Lead Belly. Here we go I'm learning a little more about Nirvana. They kill this cover of In the Pines. Came close to tears.
About a Girl- 4.7/5 Come as You Are- 5/5 Jesus Doesn't Want Me for a Sunbeam- 4.6/5 The Man Who Sold the World- 5/5 Pennyroyal Tea- 4.8/5 Dumb- 5/5 Polly- 4.8/5 On a Plain- 4.8/5 Something in the Way- 5/5 Plateau- 5/5 Oh Me- 4.5/5 Lake of Fire- 5/5 All Apologies- 5/5 Where Did You Sleep Last Night- 5/5 Total- 4.9/5
A legendary talent at the height of his skill, what else can you say?
Excellent live album. Not only could Nirvana make great original songs, but they could make covers better than the originals, while live.
Might be the perfect album.
What a legendary album, everybody know it, that one crystalise Nirvana's talent and made themj into incon. More, Kurt was on a Heroin withdrawall, so his perfomance could have been a disaster but Kurt interact with the crowd and his voice, although a bit hoarse, its perfect. This album was relaese a few months after his tragic death, so i see this album as his legacy, probably the reason why this alobum was such a sucess with 12 millions sales (certified). There 14 songs, 6 covers (3 of the meat puppets II), and 8 of there orgiginals song, 1 from Bleach (About a girl, the oppener), 4 nevermind (Come as you are, Polly, On a Plain, Something in the way) and 3 In Utero (Pennyroyal Tea, Dumb and All apologies). The first thing we see is the constrast between Nirvana's hard and brutal grunge sound and the accoutic rock that they show us here, for an artist i always see it a a sign of their talent and how good are their songs. It was a risky bet because what make Nirvana so good is their powerfull and cahotic live show and they managed to "control" themself and again its perfect. To be honnest most version are better here than in the original (All Apologies, About a girl, on a Plain ect.) Even if Kurt Cobain is the star and at the center of this perfomance, I have to mention Kris novoselic and Dave Grohl that were always there and a so much important part of that quality in this album. There is also a other guy name Pat Smear that play accoustic guitar with them. i'm kind of biased because i know this album for so long, always been part of my music life, Kurt was a big idol of mine even tho i'm not from the x generation and i was born 10 years after he died, but his impact was so big, even my generation know this guy and this band and if they do, pretty sure they know this album. The most legendary song here are i thhink 2 cover, the man who sold the world is a Bowie song from 1970's and this version is so good, far superior to the original (wich is vey good), aparantly when Bowie played it live, people would say things like "so cool you cover Nirvana". The closer is Where did you sleep last night is just pure and magnetic, his voice break into our head is incredible. On this album my personal favorite are: All apologies, On a plain, Come as you are, The mand who sold the world, about a girl and Something in the way. Go listen to it its pure and a great way to be introduce to Nirvana. RIP KURT Love U xxx
4.5 - legendary performance, rough and smooth at the same time
Peak
Uno de los discos que más escuche en mi adolescencia. Gracias
Nothing much needed to say for this. The best-unplugged album of all time.
it's Kurt of course it's good
Buenísimo
Iconic!
Best live album oat
Been waiting for a Nirvana album to pop up on here and well, here we are. There's so much I could say about this band and this album but I'll keep it short. This is a perfect recording. It not only showcased the band's appeal by stripping away all the loud noisy rock and showing the intimate side of the music itself. Cobain's vocals are raw, gritty, and full of emotion. Grohl's drums are scaled back to almost a whisper. The band plays almost exclusively non-hits and covers. The surprise guests were a lesser known band (The Meat Puppets) outside of Seattle instead of some monsters of grunge that everyone expected. It's a recipe for disaster for a lesser band, but Nirvana pulls it off and creates a haunting experience that has stood the test of time through the last 30 years. The final screams of Where Did You Sleep Last Night will haunt my memory for all eternity, as if Cobain were channeling every ounce of angst into one final agonal release. Stand out tracks: (All of them...but if I had to choose a few...) The Man Who Sold the World, Pennyroyal Tea, All Apologies, Where Did you Sleep Last Night
Another live album I really enjoyed. Quintessential Nirvana for me. I am sure nostalgia also helps.
Love it
Such a classic, always worth a listen
My fav typa music: sick yet chill, I guess R&B like I can see why they’re popular
The final statement from one of the greatest bands of my generation. It surprised everyone who watched it at the time, perfect in every way. How many bands can take a Bowie standard and practically make it their own.
With man who stile the world cover and lake of fire this is an amazing album showing Nirvanas range.
Altijd een groot fan geweest van die MTV-unplugged-concerten, en ook deze stelt niet teleur. Sterker nog, dit luistert wel erg fijn weg. Ook (of misschien wel: juist) zonder de gillende gitaren komen Kurt en zijn vrienden uitstekend tot zijn recht, en ik zou dit rustig nog wel tien keer kunnen horen.
De rage begin jaren 90: unplugged concerten. MTV wist dat goed te pluggen en er zijn een aantal iconische platen uit voortgekomen. Mijn persoonlijke favoriet is de Alice in Chains versie, waar je duidelijk kan horen hoe goed de harde nummers overeind blijven in een uitgeklede versie. Maar de beroemdste is natuurlijk dit Nirvana concert. En daar geven we lekker de maximale score voor.
One of the great live albums. 5/5
All time great, first of my style.
All time favorite
Love it. Listened many times
Nothing but bangers
Einfach 10/10 Album. Direkt 2 mal gehört.
Great album, the whole vibe is somber, relaxed, and overall legendary.
Chill atmosfera. Nirvana izvodi neke od svojih hitova i covere. Pjesme dobivaju novi sloj. Razgovori između pjesama daju karakter. Cobainovi vokali su čisti, razumljivi, i dalje ugodno hrapavi. Prekrasna izvedba Bowievog The Man Who Sold the World. Unplugged album i dalje zvuči grungy. Dalo bi se još puno reći o ovome albumu, ali sad nemam vremena
I think the consensus on this is since Unplugged was so successful that Nirvana likely would have done something for their fourth. I don’t think they would have been an interesting thought. I forgot how many Meat Puppets songs are on this. I had never heard the original songs and I listened to them afterwards. Such a weird choice to turn into basically country songs. Ultimately in 2023 I don’t think I’ll need to keep replaying Unplugged like I did in the early 2000s when I got really into Nirvana. It’s more a curiosity of the Nirvana narrative. It’s also crazy they were only in their mid 20s at this point. The banter in between songs is just kids awkwardly playing to the tv cameras.
A well put together list of songs. Lake Of Fire by the Meat Puppets, one of my favorite bands. Ending with Where Did You Sleep Last Night was perfect.
Fantastic album! One of the best
What a damn classic. I mean if I heard it for the first time today not sure what I’d think but this just smells like my teenage angst years
Para mim o melhor disco do Nirvana. As versões acústicas dão um ar totalmente diferente nas melodias. 5 estrelas.
Nirvana. One of the few live compilations on the list. Is this really "unplugged" though? Standouts: About A Girl, Plateau (Meat Puppets), Come As You Are, The Man Who Sold the World (Bowie Song), Dumb, Poly, Something in the Way, All Apologies, Lake of Fire (Meat Puppets) Others: On a Plain, Oh Me (Meat Puppets), Jesus Doesn't Want Me For a Sunbeam (a Vaselines song), Pennyroyal Tea, Where Did You Sleep Last Night (Lead Belly) Rating: 4.5
even though i couldn't stand Kurt ..i like Dave and the songs are awesome
I don't think I knew anyone who didn't have this album growing up. It is the millennial Frampton Comes Alive. It is great. The stripped back Nirvana songs are great, and the Meat Puppets, Vaselines and Bowie covers were essential music education to my teenage self.
One of my all-time favourite albums. Always love re-listening to it.
Stone cold classic! Nirvana bewijst dat ze muzikanten zijn die gewoon heel goede nummers kunnen maken, en vertolken.
Fire
one of the best
Haven't listened to this in a long time, but sung along to every song, so I guess that means something. 5/5
One of the best live albums ever
Awesome!!!! 🤩
Fuck yes.
I didn't love 'Nevermind', but I can not stop listening to this. I think this is one of the few live acoustic albums where the original "produced" sound is preserved but the acoustics actually give it depth. Ultimately, this was how it was supposed to be listened...and it worked so well.
Love this album so much. Nirvana was one of the most important bands to me when I was a kid, but as an adult this is the one I go back to the most. So many great songs on this from About a Girl to The Man Who Sold the World to Lake of Fire. The best though is Where Did You Sleep Last Night...Kurt's scream at the end is an iconic moment of the 90s. Definite 5 star from me.
I’ve loved this album for a long time and will continue to do so
One of the greatest albums of all time. Almost every track is a banger which has stood the test of time and remained relevant. I listened to the full album twice today.
RIP Kurt. Amazing performances from all throughout. Nirvana on top form.
HL: "About a Girl", "The Man Who Sold the World", "Pennyroyal Tea", "On a Plain", "Lake of Fire", "Where Did You Sleep Last Night" Now I'm not a big fan of Nirvana or anything But it has accordion! And cello! 5* Biggest surprise was how good the Meat Puppets covers were (esp. "Plateau" and "Lake of Fire"). I've heard most of the rest of this album already, in high school October 28, 2023
This was one of my mum's favourite albums when I was growing up, and we listened to it constantly. So, I love it, but its not really possible I think for me to separate the music from childhood nostalgia. I totally forgot about this album though, and now I remember it exists I'll definitely be playing it at least a few times a year.
Yes. This is the first album that made me understand the value of a live album. The studio albums are higher quantity, but there is still usue for this, it's still raw and amazing.
Seminal album by a band who had blown up, and it was great to hear them unplugged and showcase their talent… It real stand out album for me.
The Nirvana songs are good; they don’t lose much in translation from the studio versions, and gain a raw, haunting quality, with Cobain’s voice even more at the forefront. But the real stars of this album are the covers. Those Meat Puppets songs are great - I don’t think that gets talked about enough (I’ve since listened to the originals and they don’t compare - Nirvana’s renditions give them so much more depth). The Bowie cover is on point and Where Did You Sleep Last Night is the highlight of the whole thing, especially with the context of Kurt’s mental state at the time. That context has helped put this album on a pedestal that I’m not sure it would’ve reached based on the performance alone, but who knows, maybe it would’ve got close. For a live album to become iconic the performance needs to be special and unique, but it doesn’t hurt if there’s some mythology around it too. 4.5
Elite
el Album es excelente.
Definitely one of Nirvana's best performances ever. 5/5
Kurt Cobain acoustic but it is the version I've consistently heard
Great album. Brings me back to highschool
One of the core memories from the 90's, incredible iconic, acoustic album, rounding off the grunge era.
plateaux, come as you are album is a 10
One of my alltime favourites... Kurt Cobain announces "The man who sold the world" with "I'll probably screw this up" and then delivers this amazing performance. Epic unplugged session.
Great classic album! It’s cool to hear the guys talking between songs, too.
All time classic
Legendary Fav: where did you sleep last night
Took me back to the great end-of-music days on MTV. The biography of Dave Grohl (“This is a Call”) around the week of this taping shows how close to the end the band and Kurt were at that point.
Love this album. Gritty and raw. Classic Nirvana
Incredible. No skips on this album. The Man Who Sold the World was a stand-out to me, great cover. I can't believe I haven't given this album a chance until now.
One of my favorite live albums of all time. The mtv unplugged series showcased some of the greatest acts of the time. I wish they still did them. What a great performance!
A perfect moment in time
I've listened to this album at least 100 times and absolutely love it.
Amazing Album. One of the greatest all time performance wise
One of the albums that started my obsession with music
Excellent album
One of the greatest live albums of all time. Shows a distinctly intimate and personal style to Nirvana. This is them right at the precipice...
Wow. Just wow
stunning
Really good! I mean it's Nirvanna at their best, can't go wrong with that
I know most of that music - I like the live version. Great to listen to it from beginning to end.
The best
Hey 1001 Albums App people! Could we take out the short (and poorly written) one-star "reviews" currently wasting useful space at the top of this section? Please? Apart from the very first example currently heading said sectiob (more on that later), it looks like those reviews were written by lazy ignoramuses, who have only listened to around 60 albums from this app to boot. Click on "view authors", you'll see. Besides, given the dates when such "hot takes" were written, it's obvious that those reviewers never finished this project anyway. Which means I'm not even directly offending anyone here when I call them "ignoramuses". Don't get me wrong, I'm all for free speech, it's just that there are ways to say you don't like a record without sounding too obnoxious about it. At the risk of sounding a little like an "elitist", I think that you would ideally need some sort of license to get access to a more mature version of this 1001 albums app thing. It would at least prevent licensed users from wasting their time with so-called " reviews" written by folks venting their rage because they can't like what most other people seem to like (see that 4.2 global score). Which, if you pay attention to my exact phrasing here, is the *exact contrary of elitism*. Not that this phenomenon of edgelords venting their rage against almost-universally- loved music is anything new. You can see the same sort of extremely marginal, hysterically negative reactions for the Beatles' melodies, for instance. Given how much Kurt Cobain was a fan of the latter, he would probably have been flattered by the limited negative attention. Ain't that funny? Likewise, I have a sneaking suspicion Cobain would have found that *first* one-star review in this section amusing--the one I mentioned in passing earlier. Yeah, it's that "Unplug me, I can't bear this album" thing. You can keep that one, 1001 albums app managers. Because that review has been written by someone taking the project seriously, at least (300 reviews, and still writing them). And also because that one reviewer found a sarcastic and objectively smart way to express their subjective distaste of *MTV Unplugged In New York*. "Unplug me". It wouldn"t be that surprising to learn that Kurt Cobain once used the same expression when Nirvana prepared for the album--in keeping with the man's dark sense of humour and the disillusioned sort of banter actually heard between the songs on the album. Cobain used the opportunity MTV gave him to create this live folk masterpiece. But he was also wary of the commodification of his music, even if he actively took advantage of it. So "unplug me" would be an apt way to express his misgivings in a self-deprecatory manner. Obviously, the phrase "unplug me" also suggests Cobain's tragic fate, a ghost that can be sensed everywhere in this record, looming over the proceedings. See that extraordinary version of "Penny Royal Tea" played solo by Kurt, with its barebones instrumentation (guitar + voice), and the maxxed out intensity that comes out of it. Not to mention that eerie modulation from minor to major on the "tonic" A-chord starting each verse. It's a modulation that's absent in *In Utero*'s amplified studio version, by the way. Turns out this acoustic live album is filled with endearing little details like that. Some of them are small changes to the original compositions, just like the example I've just given. Others are small blunders, like that short bum note at the start of "The Man Who Sold The World"'s solo. But *all* of those details, whether the were "planned" or not, give character to what was mostly a promotional exercise at first. The stars aligned for this recording. It sounds authentic, sincere, serious, restrained--even a little austere at times, and yet lush with a beautiful sonic palette. And it took a genius act like Nirvana to associate those words with the MTV brand. The setlist also helps a lot. Naturally, Nirvana chose the most logical songs you could play acoustic versions of from their repertoire. In that realm, the highlights are "About A Girl", "Come As You Are", "Pennyroyal Tea", and that incredibly moving version of "All Apologies" right before the last track (more on it later). Yet what *also* struck minds at the time is the good taste Cobain had for the list of bands he chose to cover: The Vaselines, David Bowie, Meat Puppets (with two of them playing with the band here!) and of course Lead Belly. And those acts provide compositions that are easily transcended by the occasion and Kurt's hearfelt performance. Not a lot people remembered or even knew Bowie's "The Man Who Sold The World" before the show. It was a shame, and we can all thank Nirvana they changed that state of affairs, just as they did for each tune they covered for this project. Closer "Where Did You Sleep Last Night?", especially, comes off as a definitive statement from the band. Cobain's raspy vocals are haunting from start to finish in this LP, but here, for that take on Lead Belly's rendition of an old traditional blues, said vocals go to a whole other level of pouring-your-heart-out-to-the-world-and-see-everyone-break-into-tears-in-result. I remember reading that Cobain chose this song to finish the set because he didn't want to do an encore, and that the New York studio audience would quickly understand that, after that last performance, there was no use calling back the band on stage. Mission accomplished, boys. And girl--don't forget Lori Goldston on cello! My partner often plays this record at home on sundays. It's the sound of us relaxing, but also, I suspect, the sound of her and I reminiscing about our youths (even if we never really talk about it when we play the album). It's very bittersweet. So I would lie if I said nostalgia wasn't involved there somewhere. It's odd, because I'm always pretty defensive about the part played by nostalgia in music, I want to avoid such complacency in my listening habits. But here is a notable exception, I guess. I know this record stood the test of time anyway, that it's objectively good. So why not go nostalgic, just for this one? Nirvana recorded a folk masterpiece for the ages with *Unplugged In New York. And, well... melancholy, heartbreak and nostalgia are always fitting emotions for such a genre, aren't they? Number of albums left to review: 421 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 267 (including this one). Albums from the list might* include in mine later on: 142 Albums from the list I won't include in mine (many others are more essential to me): 176
One of the best unplugged performances ever. Long live Kurt
Raw, a lot of emotion in Kurt’s voice.
This is an important album and deserving of its place on the list. I think my biggest takeaways are (1) these guys were better guitar players than you might have guessed listening to them play grungy power chords; and (2) taken down to its barest essentials, Nirvana is actually just playing the blues (but not in a derivative way). This was a revelation at the time and it's still a really powerful listen. 5/5
Especatular
One of my first CDs and still one of my favorites. The imagery, timing, and performance here is responsible for the corny Kurt as grunge angel thing, but this album itself is untouchable. Stepping back from the loud-quiet-loud super distorted style of their other albums, this performance brings out the quality of Nirvana's songwriting (and their taste in covers). The arrangements - replacing distortion pedals for a cello and adding in a second acoustic guitar, generally quite understated drumming - bring the singing to front and make more space for it to stand out in the mix than usual and Cobain delivers the best rock vocal performance of the 90s. Hoarse and desperate, powerful until it breaks, bleak and vulnerable - his voice is incredible. I've heard it a millions times and it's still magic.
All time classic! - First listened to it when I was a teenager. - Introduced me to David Bowie via 'The Man Who Sold the World'
One of the best live albums ever. I remember watching this when it first aired on MTV at the age of 16.
Strong front to back. Thus 90s grunge voice is much more tolerable on a live recording versus a studio/radio mix.
Emotionally filled. Kurt is just so good.
What a set list... incredible!
Jetebrra
Greatest unplugged show ever!!!!
Hearing it live recording was so good 5/5
eterno
Really enjoyed
Un al
This is an amazing album for Nirvana enjoyers as it shows the songwriting and vocal talents of Kurt Cobain that was previously hidden under layers of fuzzy guitars and loud drums. I liked most of the songs but thought there was a few too many covers, the Bowie one is great but some of the others are a bit annoying. Ah fuck it I’ll give it a 5.
Epic performance. Some songs sound even better in the unplugged version
Nice album, Prinz my fav by Nirvana
Such a formative album in my youth
If you haven't listened to this by now ... Go change it. You got to listen
Such an iconic album. One of the first I ever purchased on my own and really helped me gain a full appreciation for Nirvana. 5/5
one of the best live albums
One of the best live albums capturing a unique and intimate performance of one of the most influential bands mere months before the lead singer / guitarist / songwriter commits suicide. Great covers. Very much 5.
Très bon live. J'ai bien aimé les versions lives de celle que je ne connaissais qu'en album studio, j'ai retrouvé avec plaisir The Man who sold the world et Where did you sleep last night.
Top 3 Songs: 1 - Lake of Fire (12) 2 - Something In The Way (9) 3 - The Man Who Sold the World (4)
love this album
I’d consider this one of if not the greatest live album ever recorded. It’s also probably the best Unplugged. Please debate below. Everything Kurt is doing here is genius. He doesn’t play many of the hits and instead relies on covers and deep cuts. A great piece.
i suppose this is one of the more early and formative records of my life i remember ellie nisbet peering past the front row in first year maths to ask me if i'd listened yet thanks ellie
Uuh backflash to my rebellious teen years
My personal favorite Nirvana release. That their songs -- originally loud, raucous numbers that would make your parents furrow their brows -- work in an acoustic setting speaks to the quality of the songwriting. Kurt was a big fan of both pop and blues music, and that shines through here, with their beloved covers of songs by artists like Bowie and Lead Belly. It makes you wonder what direction Nirvana may have headed in had things been different.
Goes without saying. This is like, the Frampton Comes Alive of my generation.
Although I've listened to this album many times, I always enjoy listening again. It's not my favourite unplugged (AIC's is my favourite) but it is a glimpse of where the band was at the time. I just wish we could’ve got more from them.
v cool
Easy 5 from the bat I love this album and is definitely one of my favorite live albums of all time. The rawness of Cobain's voice adds to it with him straining on a number of songs. Plus the cello adds a nice touch. Hits deep. Adds to it that they didn't really play any major hits which pissed off MTV. Not gonna go into every song, but The Man Who Sold The World might be my favorite cover of all time and I think it far exceeds Bowie's version. Plus he didn't screw it up! Dumb is such an underrated Nirvana song. All of the Meat Puppet's songs are great. Where Did You Sleep Last Night still gives me goosebumps every time I hear it with Cobain's vocal strain. So fucking good. I love every song on this album and the arrangements they have. The cello really adds to some of the songs and love hearing the talks in between. Will continue to listen the rest of me life.
This album is great because it shows that like the best songs, Nirvana's can be stripped down and still work. Here we see Kurt Cobain's songwriting and knack for melody really shine. I also enjoyed hearing Krist Novoselic's bass lines more front and center. Some of this is surely nostalgia. Nirvana was and remains a formative band for me and their fingerprints are on almost everything that came afterwards.