Favourite bands, favourite songs: Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam is one of my favourite bands, and deciding on favourite songs is never easy in this case. After much consideration, I’ve decided to include those that had the most profound influence on me. It’s not surprise, then, that there are more early songs on the list (but I don’t think their more recent albums suck… Ok, not completely, but there’s definitely a problem with Eddie’s voice. But that’s another issue).

10. Given to Fly (It’s really like a wave in the ocean).

9. Indifference (This is my husband’s fav PJ song).

8. Betterman (There’s something both sad and hopeful about this song. It’s personal and universal at the same time).

7. Even Flow (Incredibly catchy, if it’s possible to use this word for a rock song).

6. Release (Like I wrote elsewhere, this one is a perfect, perfect opener. Plus, the line: Oh, dear dad- gets me every time). 

5. The hymns: Alive, Jeremy and Black (These are the one new fans hear first, and after a while, move to other songs that are even better. But these still remain hymns that we all recognize, and I guess they do deserve a place on this list).

4. Corduroy (It’s probably one of the best PJ songs, both musically and lyrically. It’s also, I sense, extremely honest).

3. Rearviewmirror (Known for its crazy drumming section, this one is… Well, beyond amazing in terms of energy and anger. Energetic songs tend to make me feel better).

2. State of Love and Trust (It would definitely be my favourite, only if there wasn’t for for N01. The first time I’ve heard it was at the Unplugged concert and I fell in love on the spot. The clashing rhythm, the lyrics, the energy… It has it all).

1. Porch (Probably one of my favourite songs in general. It deserves the top spot on this list because it can make me feel better after feeling depressed, or angry, or lost. I also like it because of it’s somewhat strange format, the prolonged solo, Ed’s mighty voice… So much energy in those 3 and a half minutes. So powerful, so incredible).

Favourite bands, favourite songs: Red Hot Chili Peppers

Only four, because it’s impossible for me to form a better list on this one.

4. Don’t Forget Me

For some reason (I don’t really get), people are less than impressed by thins one, but I find it to be seducing and hypnotic. Some called it “goodbye song to heroin” [sic] but as usual, it’s completely open to interpretation. Interesting lyrics.

3. Under the Bridge

Arguably, their best song, and not just because it’s the most famous. What makes RHCP unique is the fact they are always four individuals with strikingly different approaches and interests in music, and it shows in their songs, with amazing, wild results. Here, however, they are working perfectly side by side, creating one of the most beautiful ballads of the 90s.

2. Otherside

It was difficult for me to decide whether this goes on the top spot, but my love for Flea (and his crazy stuff) prevailed, so Otherside gets second spot. But there’s just so many things I like about this song, and I can play it over and over (and over) again, so it’s safe to say it’s one of my favourites.

1. Suck My Kiss

This song starts with a bang, and then just continues, wild. It’s energy just makes me feel better. Oh, and did mention I love Flea?