Editor’s note: Adult content creator and host of the Teaser Talk podcast Hollie Nicole is a proud music geek who adores the sounds of the 1990s, from alternative to emo to dance. She offered us a Cobain-less list of her go-to ’90s classics…and it’s a good one.
Wish – The Cure
The mope rockers’ ninth studio album was released on April 21, 1992 through Fiction Records in the UK and Elektra Records in the States. During the 1992 world tour in support of Wish, Robert Smith et al captivated audiences at their sold-out shows, delivering performances that were more powerful than ever.
Favorite Track:
“Friday I’m in Love.” Who doesn’t want to be in love on Friday?! I know a lot of their fans at the time weren’t sure how to feel about this quirky track, but it stole my heart. Fun fact (according to Rolling Stone): The song was recorded in Richard Branson’s rural Tudor mansion.
Third Eye Blind – Third Eye Blind
Released on April 8, 1997, the album became a huge hit, but the band’s journey to success was a long one, tracing back to the early ’90s when they were part of the Bay Area music scene.
Favorite Track:
I remember breaking the ribbon on the cassette tape from listening to it so much! If I had to pick just one cut, it would be “How’s it Going to Be.” That one’s for the emo kid in me.
Metallica (AKA The Black Album) – Metallica
Released on August 12, 1991, this album was a shift for Metallica, as they transitioned from the complex thrash metal of their earlier days to a more polished sound. This evolution was influenced by glam-rock producer Bob Rock, known for his work with Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, and Loverboy.
Favorite Track:
“Sad But True.” Much like “Enter Sandman,” this track delivers a massive sound. It’s a relentless, hard-hitting tune.
Believe – Cher
Cher is, has been, and always will be iconic. This 1998 album is an absolute banger from the first track to the last. If you need a confidence booster, put this on full blast and let the Cher effect take over.
Favorite Track:
“Strong Enough.” The beat and melody are irresistibly fiery. I doubt you’ll be able to resist the urge to drop everything and dance!
Rage Against the Machine – Rage Against the Machine
Released on November 3, 1992, RATM’s first studio album delivers a bold blend of funk, rap, and rock. Its powerful presence continues to serve as a vital call to activism and an important guide to resisting opposition.
Favorite Track:
“Killing in the Name.” A powerful fusion of punk, hardcore, and hip-hop, this song delivers a fierce societal critique, focusing on what the band identified as systemic racism within the U.S. security forces.
Volume #1 – CKY
Produced, engineered, and mixed by guitarist Chad Ginsburg, Volume #1 first hit the shelves on February 27, 1999, offering a wickedly entertaining, groove-filled album.
Favorite Track:
It’s tough to narrow it down, but I’d have to go with “96 Quite Bitter Beings.” This song always reminds me of the good ol’ days of CKY2K and Tony Hawk Pro Skater. Ber-na-dette-nere…if you know, you know!
Tragic Kingdom – No Doubt
Gwen Stefani turned a metaphorical diary about her breakup with band member Tony Kanal into the band’s breakthrough third album.
Favorite Track:
“Just A Girl.” It’s not only fun to dance to, but the lyrics are brilliantly crafted. Even today, the song resonates with women who face issues regarding cultural identity, self-acceptance, and social equality.
Clutch – Clutch
I love the groovy guitar and Neil Fallon’s voice on this one. Released on May 9, 1995, it’s stood the test of time, possibly because each song has its own sound and vibe.
Favorite Track:
“Escape from the Prison Planet.” The signature riffs will hook you in!
No Need to Argue – The Cranberries
Lyrically, vocally, and musically, the second studio album by the Irish alternative rock band is stunning and inspiring.
Favorite Track:
“Zombie,” hands down. Straying away from their traditional softer tones and hitting with a full-on grunge style, it was the band’s signature song before the tragic death of lead singer Dolores O’Riordan.
Linger Ficken Good – Revolting Cocks
This playful yet entertaining album comes from a band that began its life as a side project by Richard 23 of Front 242, Belgian singer/songwriter Luc van Acker, and Al Jourgensen of Ministry.
Favorite Track:
“Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” This take of Rod Stewart’s disco classic maintains the original’s tempo and lyrics but adds a sleazy twist. I absolutely love it!
Hollie Nicole is on The Playboy Club. Talk to her now.
