This legendary voice! Vocal ANALYSIS of Alice In Chains performing "I Stay Away"
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 4 ต.ค. 2024
- I admit, the first time I heard Layne Staley of Alice In Chains, I didn't understand the style of grunge until I heard him performing "Down In A Hole" acoustically. Since then, I've wanted to consume every Layne and Jerry Cantrell song I can muster. "I Stay Away" came to pass in a discussion with a few patrons, and seeing as how I needed to hear more AIC, I figured let's give it a look!
Join professional opera singer Elizabeth Zharoff, as she listens to Alice In Chains performing "I Stay Away" for the first time.
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Performed by Alice In Chains - Words and Music by Mike Inez, Jerry Cantrell
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Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
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When people say "Alice in Chains harmonies", this is what they mean. That distinct sound, can't mistake it for anyone else.
And sometimes its harmonies of the harmonies, like the album track of DOIH. They were always trying to mix it up.
Truth
Layne and Jerry / Layne's harmonies were so haunting, beautiful, and unique. If you are lucky enough to have it cut right through you, resonate both musically and emotionally, it's art you will never forget.
My one problem with their harmonies is that they distract from just how damn good Layne's voice was
@@pmenzel86Yeah. I'm a big aic fan but I see the harmonies as a negative. They sound like a weird mesh of noises rather than a song voice for one, and they take away from Layne's voice. I totally disagree their harmonies are beautiful or amazing
You don’t just listen to Alice In Chains. You FEEL Alice In Chains
I agree totally! I didn't get into AIC till about 2 yrs ago when my son (17 yr old) started listening to them heavy even though I'm 45 yrs old lol. If I knew about them I swear they would have been the soundtrack to my teenage years! They are my go to band when I'm angry or depressed over this that and the other. I listen to my 36 song playlist at least 2-3× weekly and sometimes daily lol
Yes & their music still gets me through hard times ☮️🖖. This will always be a perfect song.
@@katrinakern5261I’m 46 & was lucky enough to see them open for VH. I listen to JOF & Dirt once a week☮️👊
Everytime
I def agree!
Sadly people credit the Alice in Chains sound mostly to Layne's, but Jerry's voice is a such a huge part in their sound.
Yes!
Because Layne’s voice is legendary and the piece that’s irreplaceable.
Jerry Cantrell has been on record saying people want me to sing I'm like why we have Layne Staley
Jerry was the main composer but Layne was the one who arranged the vocal harmonies. As an example, he composed the lyrics and harmonies of this song himself while Jerry didn't even sing. It's true that Jerry was also part of the band's sound but he was just the backup singer while Layne was the main voice and his sound is what made the band famous.
@@TheStepmonkeyI disagree, vocals are only one part of AICs sound, I think Jerry contributed just as much to what made them them. Mad Season for example does not have the signature sound of AIC.
Fantastic song. Reminds me of a much simpler time. I actually miss the 90s. Anyone else?
All the time, definitely the best decade in my lifetime.
Me too
Sooooo much!!! I was a teen in the 90's, an odd ball who didn't fit with the norm, the early 90's music, attitude, etc allowed me to be ME
We were absolutely spoiled!
I think people who weren't even around for it miss it.
I've had the PRIVILEGE of seeing them live in a smaller venue, it was haunting and beautiful. RIP Layne.
You’re so blessed. I never made it to a live show - have regretted it deeply
Same here, saw em at The Masquerade in Atlanta November 17 1992. They'd just released Dirt... still got the faded ticket stub... somehow. Layne asked for and received a joint on stage which he lit up and toked on during the show, good times.
I❤u AIC
Right honey IT is UNREAL ❤ you
Same they played a club in Newcastle in Australia, I met layne and jerry.
“Tears that soak a calloused heart.”
Only Alice In Chains can pack that much meaning, into six little words.
The other three that our powerful are, 'shifty eyes shady'. It says alot!
@@mindyhuntbeach8026that entire verse is strong… but to that line, it’s more impactful with the line before it, “so close a lady, Shifty eyes shady…”
That could go for anyone close to you, but interesting that it’s put in this context.
@@omardcastrod Whoever wrote it (im assuming Jerry), is an amazing lyricist!
One of my favorite Alice in chains lyrics. My favorite is from Sea of sorrow... "Walls of thought, strong and high. As my castle crumbles with time, I think of you"
@@mindyhuntbeach8026 Layne wrote the lyrics for this song
If you're going to listen to Jar of Flies, you can't miss the first track. Rotten Apple is an underrated masterpiece of vocal harmony.
The whole project is a masterpiece and the best EP ever but rotten apple is the true masterpiece of the record, that song is so fuckin awesome
Yep. This album is a no skip masterpiece. ❤️ it
@@puppetmaster8551it's so hard for me to pick a favorite from that EP but I have to say most of the time Don't Follow is my favorite. Idk why but I get a really "Bluesy" feel from it. I mean someone plays a harmonica in the song lol
The guitar intro with the talk box is what does it for me
@@ProdByZVY Yep. 100%.
“Bleed the freak”
“Rain when I die”
Both these songs shows Laynes vocal power
Totally agree! Bleed the Freak Live from the Moore is my all time fav.
Rain when I die, very underrated song!!
Rain when I die is incredible
Rooster
I'm going to have to go with "Rain When I Die," out of your two.
Jerry's guitar work is criminally underrated.
Who underrated him ? Where
Heard him on Rick Beato channel and I’m convinced he’s a genius like David Gilmour.
Rest in Peace, Layne. The world is less without your presence.
I've always loved how he sings "I Stay Away" 4 different ways at the end.
A testament to a time before the ease of copying and pasting!
His voice was so dynamic💗
@@metaltimTHAT. Copy/paste is one of my biggest pet peeves with music made these days. Call me old/Gen X, I guess. 😂
Same. It adds so much character to the song.
This was always my favorite part of the song. Really adds a different feel and uniqueness to it.
"Oh, its so pretty!" Then the chorus kicks and the demons come out. 😂 Still gives me goose bumps 30 years later
Can u imagine that this EP album was made for 7-10 days without demos, just from zero!) the first EP in music history to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart over even Michael Jackson!
And well deserved, it feels very 90s, yet somehow timeless.
@@Smokey1419 That's how we get the classics
Also didn’t Layne blow out like, five microphones?
@@heatheral-hammadi3046 i tried finding something about him breaking mics but i couldnt find anything, it would be cool tho
First project they ever did with Mike Inez too and it turned out to be the best EP ever and his bass work was crucial to the EP. Also you’re correct on everything except whale & wasp was a song Jerry wrote when he was 19, he brought it to the table when they were making this, all the other songs were created in that week span tho. Truly a masterpiece record
“Vocal beehive” is probably the best description of that particular harmonization that I’ve ever heard. Jerry and Layne’s voices are buzzing in an unsettling but beautiful way, and I absolutely love it.
She’s really good at making observations I’ve never thought about in songs I’ve listened to 1000 times. Makes me appreciate these songs more than I already do.
i have to say she nailed it on that one.
It's Layne harmonizing in 3s. Jerry doesn't not sing on this track.
Fun fact this is the first EP to debut number one on Billboard. This is such an iconic project. Layne’s and Jerry’s voices together is simply magical and is definitely part of what set them apart from any other band out there. Beauty and darkness. Rest easy, Layne. You’re sorely missed.
Also if you want a song from them to make you contemplate life and is also hauntingly beautiful check out Whale & Wasp in your own time. It’s an instrumental so there’s no vocal reaction for you to do.
Layne did both vocal tracks of the harmony for this song.
Alice in Chains is one of my favorite bands, and this is my favorite album of theirs.
THIS ALBUM IS SIMPLY HEARTBREAKING, every single time 😭😭😭😭. Layne was one of a kind, his voice was unrivalled
breathtaking is the right word
@@anthonyjordan830 yup, but also heartbreaking 🥲🥲🥲
i would REALLY like her to listen to Rotten Apples
I agree it is heartbreaking, I really love this EP, and nutshell really breaks your heart to hear about how alone he felt and the mental battles he fought. Layne lives forever with us. ❤️
Staley, Vedder, Cobain, Weiland, and Cornell were all one in a million amazing voices. Incredible it was all around the same time…grunge really spoiled us all.
Mad Season's "Wake Up" is a great example of Layne's softer voice. The whole Mad Season album is great.
I so agree! Mad Season is a must listen to. Layne's vocals and the overall mood of the album is truly amazing.
Yes great album
That is an extremely underrated album. I think it was largely unheard. The song "wake up" has amazing vocals but let us not forget McCready's insane solo on that song... That album is in my top 20 of all time
I might argue it's the best "grunge" album, or I might not.
Mad Season.. so tasty 😋
Psychiatrists should prescribe Alice In Chains. There are few better bands by which to process trauma. AIC literally saved lives. It’s a shame we couldn’t do the same for Layne and Mike.
Certainly saved mine. More than once. No exaggeration - I was in a very dark place at 19, and this album literally kept me going.
@@DestructionGlitter and that's what music is all about.helping us get through life and giving us words for feelings we have a hard time expressing
And that's the truth. AIC, saving my life and keeping me passably sane for 31 years straight.
AIC kept me going before I found the Lord, now both Jesus and AIC keep me going 😂
Keep going, Manks5491, my brother.
This entire EP is incredible. It’s their masterpiece.
What about SAP tho?
@@shanetapp- this is better
The fact that they kind of just shat it out in one week blows my mind
@@shanetapp Sap is fucking beautiful but JoF is better. They were still heavily experimenting with their sound and production during Sap. JoF is a masterpiece for sure. My personal favorite is Dirt though.
@@tylerdavis3 I mean... I can't even argue... I think it may be a timing thing for me... SAP being my discovery of them and being blown away.
This whole Album changed my life. I got out of a toxic relationship and moved across the country to get away. This just came out and bought it for the trip. I feel deep emotionally connection to it. Both high and low. Amazing!
James, I am so glad you removed yourself from that relationship. I know and feel the pain you experienced as I know it intimately as well. Hope you are prospering and never again face another manipulative person. I know it makes you begin to question your own sanity at times, just as the toxic person desires. Take care and keep your head up high as you move on. Peace!
Yeeeeaaaaaahhhhhhhhyaaaahhh ayyyyyyeeeee want to travel south this year
I feel ya, This album alone got me through a divorce. It will be ingrained in me until the day I die.
Me too honey
This whole “EP” is a masterpiece. Do the whole thing. It’s magical. It always reminds me of the fall time I first listened to it.
This, a million times this.
It really is…Don’t Follow is one of my favorites. Kind of a break away song between Cantrell and Staley. Gorgeous though, the production on this EP is stellar.
It really is. This is what I grew up with and I'm super grateful for that.
Same here. Everytime I hear it I feel like it's late fall early winter
I first got this album in the Columbia House 12 CDs for a buck "deal" in like 1995-6 along with Nirvana In Utero ; Red Hot Chili Peppers What Hits? ; Green Day Dookie ; Cypress Hill Black Sunday ; Crash Test Dummies ; White Zombie and that's all I can remember. Probably Metallica and Ozzy too.
Layne's voice is so "haunting" when he sings that "IIIIII staaaaayyy awayyy". I still get chills when I hear that line. Just incredible.
I got chills just reading it and remembering the song 🎵
I was reading this listening and had chills. Lol.
When I hear that part it pulls me back and throws me in the body of my 10 year old self riding my bike around in the summer and listening to this on a discman. It’s so strong I literally feel like I’m traveling in time.
....same😢😣🤘
so true...
Keep doing Alice In Chains please. So good and under appreciated they deserve the attention
Absolutely agree
@@neinnonon under appreciated based on my experience talking about music with people for decades. I think very highly of them, and i think dirt belongs higher up on lists of best rock albums than you’d typically find it. If you want actual metrics here:
nirvana: 27.8 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Pearl Jam 13.3 mil monthly. AiC: 7.4 mil. Nirvana and Pearl Jam are more famous despite in my opinion Alice and Chains having the best music. They r all good but I think AIC deserves more praise.
AIC were off the scale they were so brilliant, The whole band are in my opinion the true greats of grunge and the music feeling is hauntingly beautiful. It's touched me so deeply.
Agree completely, I get everyone to listen to alice in chains at every opportunity
“Lush with cut,” really is a perfect way to describe what Layne’s voice does.
"It shouldn't work, but it does". Such a great statement about AiC's music and about so much mid 90's metal & alternative music! The music world was turned upside down and there was such a will to experiment and propose something new back then. Every month, every week, a great record was released in this 90-95 time frame! RIP Layne & Mike, much love.
I’ve always thought that 90-95 were the most Jam packed years absolutely filled with some of the greatest music to ever be. Imagine if we still had greats churning out masterpieces at the rate like we did back then, we haven’t even had half the great amount of music in the last 25 years we did in those 5.
Jar of Flies is an incredible album, by far my favorite AiC album. Haunting, beautiful, completely breaks the mold on what they were seen to be at the time Wonderful.
Right?
I am completely bemused that she found the pre-chorus so jarring, but when we brought this album home and popped it into the CD player - after a steady diet of Facelift and Dirt - this was the first moment on the album that felt like familiar territory. The whole experience was mind blowing.
@@mvbprintmaker4114 the bridge was always about the chaos or unhappiness around Layne, as a Seattle area guy I always equated it with our weather and SAD issues out here, which would explain the transcendent chorus saying "I stayyyy Awayyyy" haha.
Just my interpretation but I know I go through that feeling by about February every year in this area.
Written and recorded in FIVE days
Yeah, I couldn't have said it any better! I've replayed this album more than any of their others. I'm so glad to hear this song again here...
Wish we could have gotten more like this. SAP doesn't compare for sure
Yay!!!! I Stay Away is one of the prettiest songs to ever exist and I'm so excited to see you fall in love with this song and explain to everyone why it's just so good.
Please, please, PLEASE do "No Excuses" next. It's from the same album and continues to show off Layne&Jerry's vocal harmonies at their best.
It's a fairly simple song. But in the car, I find it impossible to not drum on the steering wheel (something so catchy about those 32nd and 16th note hihats) and sing the harmonies. Loudly. Generally when I'm alone in the car. I try to be kind to my fellow humans 😄
Nutshell is better😊
All the vocals on "No Excuses" on the album recording are Layne.
Sean Kinney is the highlight of no excuses. If it wasn't for his drumming I wouldn't care much for the song. It doesn't have dynamics like this one does
The production on this album is so underlooked. One of my favorite bass tones on any album EVER
No hate to Starr but Inez work on this record is stellar and the album never would’ve been the perfect masterpiece it is with Starr still on bass, Inez bass is crucial to this record and he had a way bigger impact on this EP than Starr did on any AIC project. Truly a genius decision for them to add Inez into the band, the bass work and tone on this record is just so damn good, his bass during the unplugged show is glorious too.
Inez was with Ozzy before that, so he definitely had his practice before joining on this album
@@puppetmaster8551 Wasn't it Inez's idea to add the violin - orchestra
@@casey10bb I can’t remember, Jerry talked about that song in a magazine back in the 90s about how he wrote whale & wasp when he was 19. It’s possible it was Inez idea to add the strings but at minimum the bones of the song was written by Jerry when he was 19
you can thank producer Toby Wright for that! Layne typically only did one cut on this EP!!!!
Hauntingly beautiful is how I always described Layne's voice. Such talent and so missed. AIC hits you and you feel it.
Even after 29 years, I still get goosebumps listening to Layne's haunting vocals!
Please do “No Excuses” from this album as well…another great song full of rich harmonies!
Yes! And Don't Follow!
Every Alice In Chains song ever please
Great song, I recommend the unplugged version personally because Jerry gets more spotlight and he deserves especially because that’s his song
"No Excuses" to me sounds like a more regular radio song, whereas most of the other songs sound more sad and gorgeous and atmospheric.
30 years ago this was my favorite song on the radio
Glad you have come back to AIC. This song certainly emphasizes Layne's great vocals and adds a dash of violin to the mix.
Timeless classic. I can still remember the first time I heard this about 30 years ago. It still gives me chills every time I hear it. It’s not just a song, it’s a movement. A movement like an emotional roller coaster. Highs, lows, joy, sadness, grief and overcoming. Not many songs out there that run the gamut of emotion like this. An amazing piece of work. Thank you for your analysis and your wonderful reaction to one of my favorite pieces of music ever! Cheers!
This song always makes me feel like I’m floating in water and space at the same time
The best thing about seeing Alice in Chains reaction videos pop up, is reading how their music is still so relevant, therapeutic, and enjoyable to so many people across different generations. Really speaks to what they were able to capture in their music. I'm so happy AIC is standing the test of time and channels like this exist to continue to promote their musical abilities. ✌️🤘❤️
every song on this album is an easy 10/10, but this one is probably my favorite of the bunch. the 12 string guitar is what makes this a perfect song imo
Couldn’t agree more!!! 💪🏼
Love love love this song, but "Right Turn" from the Jar of flies/Sap EP has always been the vocal highlight for me.
Layne Staley duetting with Chris Cornell and Mark Arm!
Just unreal!
Imo swing in this is a bit of a miss, but apart from that 10/10
This album was the soundtrack for my '94. Training in the Army and wearing out the CD. When Layne hits that final 'Away' at the end it still sends chills.
Me too ..his voice is addictive and moving to the soul !!
Same here bro. I enlisted straight out of high school in 94. Best soundtrack to have discovered yourself to. Jar of Flies, Superunknown, and The Downward Spiral all came out that year. I ended up discovering Dinosaur Jr. thanks to some friends too. 🤘
Yessir. I still get eargasms from most of AIC songs. Truest definition of dark music. The music is so beautiful and makes u wanna sing along but the subject matter is as dark as dark gets. Man I miss these dudes and this type of music 😔
@@deeberry650amen. The line "tears that soak a callous heart" is next level.
Punching holes in the North Pacific on a submarine. I get it.
It's incredibly sad that one of the most talented and visceral singers of our time died alone. Layne deserved so much more than this world could offer, but he couldn't escape his own torment.
Layne is hands down my personal favorite vocalist. 1000% heart and soul in his vocals. Chris Cornell being a close second.
Dont we just love music so much?? 💯🤯
Eddie Vedder is our last grunge God standing.
Thanks, man!
Agreed. For years I'd flip your order, but honestly, in the last couple of years I've deep dived in to AiC pretty hard, and although I love Cornell's music, I think I do genuinely find Layne to be the superior singer, especially at his peak. The Live at the Moore performance really settles it. God I wish I could have gotten to see Layne live.
I did get to see Chris live though, on his last birthday in Spokane Washington. His voice aged so well. I wonder what Layne would sound like had he beat his demons and was still around today? Would his voice have matured like Chris's did?
If we're strictly talking singers-#1 for me, hands-down is Layne Staley-the talent, the lyrics, the music, and the emotions.
Then, my #2 would most likely be Serj Tankian-unbelievably talented man!
I'm gonna probably have to say Kurt Cobain would be #3-purely based on an emotional, nostalgic, and personal level.
Otherwise, Mike Patton is exceptionally talented-just doesn't evoke in me the deep emotions like with the other three. To each their own tho.
Music is what feelings sound like! 🤘🏼❤️♾️
Good call that's how I see it too...
Staley
Cornell
Weiland
Staley gave the anguish of addiction a voice. Wish he could have found a way through.
Lanes voice is the very definition of ICONIC.
As several others have already said, this is my favorite Alice in Chains song. It's an absolute showcase of contrasts, being both disturbing and beautiful at the same time.
Almost every AIC song is my favorite song.....
The placement of this track after Nutshell on the album is a perfect contrast as well. It is hard to say which track on this album is my all time favorite from AIC, sometimes depends on my mood, but both can bring me to tears and are extremely cathartic. Not even mentioning the rest of the album which is overall a F’ing masterpiece.
The four other big songs from Jar of Flies ("Rotten Apples", "Nutshell", "No Excuses", "Don't Follow") are all worthy of reaction for various reasons. "Rotten Apples" is unique and atmospheric, "Nutshell" is just about the best Alice in Chains song and may be the definitive Layne Song, "No Excuses" is the best example of the Layne and Jerry vocal dynamics, and "Don't Follow" shows that Jerry is no slouch himself but features a great Layne section himself. Please consider these for the future.
I listen to Nutshell sometimes when I’m working out
Totally agree! And I mentioned these four songs specifically in my own comment. One note: It's "Rotten Apple," singular. Sorry to be pedantic.
Nutshell is my favorite.
Nutshell is what I put on when I want to get really deep into my own personal nostalgia of mid-90s grunge. No Excuses is what I put on when I want to hear something pretty/radio friendly but still era-defining.
I’ve been listening to this song for the better half of 27 years or so, and to this day it gives me goosebumps and makes me borderline emotional. Not many songs can do that for me. I love this song so much! Layne Staley was something else, I tell you! 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Amen to that
Layne still is and forever will be my favorite singer of all time. He had unmatched talent but also emotion and his live music is better then any other band’s studio music I don’t understand how a human being can sound so relaxingly gorgeous but also terrifyingly in depth and sad. I can’t stress it enough how underrated he is compared to everyone else he should be praised by every generation forever
Sorry, but it’s now and always Myles Kennedy for me.
I saw Layne in a three piece suit at the start of their set on Lollapolooza in 93 and it was like 95 degrees that day! Needless to say he took the jacket tie vest and shirt off after playing Would the first song to start the show! Very charismatic singer and great stage presence! His voice very unique and an unbelievable range! RIP Layne!
Out of curiosity, was that at the Orlando show?
@@dire51 No Los Angeles area
@@garylagstrom3864 ah, okay. The three piece suit must've been his tour outfit that summer, he was wearing it in Orlando too.
Me, too. In Atlanta.
Watching Elizabeth's authentic reactions (including the joy of squirming in discomfort) is why I keep coming back. Thank you!
Honestly, her squirming is disrespectful to me. I’ve been watching her for a bit and you have to understand that with trained opera singers, they believe they are the upper echelon of musicality. Let’s pass on her
When a singer, a trained singer, which I am, says that somebody’s voice is too nasally, that is like them saying they have zero talent. It’s one of the worst things you can hear as a singer so she can hide behind her little smile and face reactions, but I know what she’s really saying.
@@mkc0317 So what word(s) would you use instead to objectively describe Layne Staley's vocals?
Elizabeth herself has commented on the need for different techniques when performing different styles. Vocal qualities that are avoided in classical training may be ideal in other genres.
As soon as Layne starts singing its instant goosebumps and a flood of emotion.
That gurgling bubble sounds you mentioned is the bass running through a wah pedal. On another note this is arguably the greatest EP ever released. It was such a a huge influence for me musically when it was released.
Yes, the bass is the defining sound of the music in that section. Jerry’s descending guitar riff makes it perfect.
"vocal beehive" is such a perfect summary of this album 👍 this album may be the most beautiful sonic work to come out of the grunge era, I just love it so much and was always blown away that I could listen to this kind of chill vibe from the grunge scene (which I also love that hard rock sound), SO UNIQUE ❤
This album is incredible
Dear Elizabeth,
Thank you. Alice in Chains helped me to deal with the darkest episode of my depression. I listened to them over and over. I cried, I struggeld, I managed. Now I stay away from the darkness. It is such a pleasure to watch someone enjoy this song for the first time. I love listening to it with full volume. That energy sinks into one's soul, those lovely strings give shivers. Thank you so much ❤
If you want to "stay away from the darkness" might i recommend the group Band-Maid. I consider them the "anti-Alice in Chains". AIC is usually slow and dark/depressing lyrics and BM are usually fast paced and the lyrics are uplifting/inspiring. Both bands also have very catchy hooks/choruses as well as great harmonies. If you haven't heard them check them out if you get the chance.
th-cam.com/video/lf0mQOiu8J8/w-d-xo.html
May be try listening to ABBA...this stuff will dig you deeper hence the album DIRT...hope you're well!!!
Hey, I was in The same place when Layne took me back. I will love AIC music till my end.
I do this to this day
.my 40th birthday was this Friday and honestly thought I'd never live to be 18 and yet at the same time don't wanna see 41... This music helps me cope
I discovered Alice in Chains during one of the darkest times of my life, when my father suddenly died three days after my 21st birthday. The dark and surreal melodies, intermingled with ethereal beauty and moments of hopefulness and light, helped me so much during that time. What I get from the music and lyrics is that there is strife, a struggle between light and dark, and a yearning to transcend pain, to attain something greater. That's how the music whispers to me.. seems like it has touched you in a similar fashion. We can't always win over the darkness, but look to the path that leads to light. It's all worth it!
Blessed Be❤️
Thank you! This whole album is incredible…one of the best ever. The rawest and purest Layne I think.
Alice in Chains are their own genre of music. Layne 🤘
AIC was the most musically talented group to come out of the grunge scene.
SOUNDGARDEN
@@vitorkaique5782 Soundgarden, while amazing (saw them in concert in 1997), doesn't have the range that AIC did, IMHO. To take nothing away from the amazing Soundgarden. Chris Cornell and Layne Staley were both vocal titans who had a unique sound that will never be duplicated.
Chris Cornell's range is C#2-G6, Layne Staley's range is G1-D7, he did those notes live too, he hit D7 when he killed himself, Chris Cornell's range is literally contained in Layne's range.
However, Cornell only reaches 4 octaves in one song:
th-cam.com/video/gh20q3Dx8RI/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUQYmV5b25kIHRoZSB3ZWxsIA%3D%3D
Singing professionals have said that Cornell never used his full chest and head singing strength, because if he did, he could perhaps hit more notes, being a baritone he had a lot of technique to go up and down the pitch, without sounding like a little girl.
Besides, on Soundgarden's B-side records, Cornell had VOLUME, EXTENSION, DEPTH AND REACH so much after so many years he admits he couldn't reach all the octaves, due to aging and lifestyle, but he was the GREATEST singer of the 90s. Layne might be close, Cornell was IMBATIBLE.@@shindrithargriethrat8408
Alice in Chains often gets pigeonholed a lot as this dark heavy band (which they absolutely were more often than not), but they also could bring serious melody and even sweetness/bittersweetness into their sound in ways that was often overlooked unless you were deeply into them.
People love to talk about "underrated" guitarists (like Lifeson) but Jerry is vastly underrated. Alex Lifeson will forever be my #1 spot. But Jerry's guitar tone just works for me. Big time.
I honestly think his struggle with addiction is what led to more "dark" sounding material.
I honestly can't think of another band that could sound so beautiful and yet so dark at the same time. Love me some AIC.
That’s Jerry for you, one of the most versatile songwriters ever, Layne was one of the best singers ever but Jerry’s super wide range as a songwriter are the main thing that made AIC such a versatile band and allowed them to make a dark as album like dirt and then immediately follow it up with something like jar of flies and then go back to a really dark but different sound for tripod. Jerry’s solo discog is crazy versatile too, degradation trip vol1&2 is absolutely nothing like brighten and boggy depot is kind of a mix of everything. Jerry will always be one of the best songwriters ever, his songwriting paired with Layne vocals was truly special and magical, the will remain one of the best musical duos forever
@@Apodalont Jerry was the primary songwriter not Layne so he contributed more than anyone to the direction their sound went, obviously a lot of Layne’s lyrics became really dark but a lot of their dark music was also written by Jerry and musically alot of those dark instrumentals were all Jerry. Jerry’s songwriting was already taking them in a darker direction Layne’s addiction issues and struggles only amplified that more tho. It’s why Jerry’s masterpiece solo record degradation trip vol1&2 is as dark as any AIC album and Layne obviously had nothing to do with it. Jerry just has a special ability to write really dark and depressing music that’s also incredible, pair that with Layne’s struggling and his own lyrical content becoming darker and you got some really dark depressing and eerie music that was incredible.
I remember when this album came out; that year was stacked full of amazing musical releases, but there was something truly otherworldly about this album. There still is
The "chorus" in this song is actually the bridge. "I Stay Away" is actually the chorus. This song is a bit of an acquired taste, but I guarantee it will grow on you with repeated listenings. I know it did on me. This song is also a perfect mix of light and dark, lightness and heaviness, orchestral sheen and sludge.
Also, the whole album is amazing. Not a bad song on "Jar of Flies".
It was an instant addiction for me. But I was a huge fan of AIC before this.
My favorite AIC song.
It's definitely an acquired taste, and it's taken me some repeated listening but it's grown on me.
I find it's a song of two halves... First half it's just ok but the second half of the song is just majestic.
Prechorus
@@chasebeavers yep... Into, Verse, Pre-Chorus, Verse, Pre-Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, cold out.
This whole album is AMAZING. "Nutshell" is my favorite track, one of the first tracks to bring me to tears
This song will possess you.Still after all these years I close my eyes cry & sing along.Beautiful/dark/haunting that’s why this is 1 of AIC’s best songs..☮️🍀❤️
Highly recommend Black gives way to blue, it really gives you a chance to appreciate Jerry Cantrell on vocals, plus Elton John on piano. Totally amazing.
Agreed ..Jerry's song about Layne ..it is very emotional for Jerry when he sings it and DOES SHOWCASE Jerry's voice as well .
I know Layne had a beautiful voice but Jerry should get more love. He's great.
Boggy Depot is one of the most underrated albums of all time. Blues-rock masterpiece.
@@mundanemorselsmundanemorse7028 boggy depot rules, that being said deg trip vol1&2 is even better and is one of the best double albums ever
He’s one of the best ever, Layne gets most of the attention because he was the frontman and had a tremendous voice but Jerry was the mastermind of the whole band, he’s one of the best songwriters ever and was the backbone of the band, almost all of their biggest hits were written by solely Jerry including the 4 hit singles off of dirt. Jerry and Layne were a magical duo, Jerry one of the best songwriters ever and an overall special musician and Layne one of the best vocalists of all time, both incredible lyricists too. They will always be one of the best music duos ever, I do wish Jerry got more attention tho because he deserves it
Jerry and Chris Cornell pretty much invented grunge. Mudhoney, too.
But he doesn’t compare in anyway to Layne’s voice. Legendary Staley vs decent Cantrell
This song moves me!! His voice, the harmonies, the arrangement, the production. The music itself makes me feel.
During the "fly buzzing" sections, you have to realize there is a lot of instrumental stuff going on, the rapid descending runs on the guitar, the very dynamic bass line, all of that behind Layne's 4 or 5 vocal harmony tracks. It's a beautifully orchestrated jumble that creates that tension while sounding absolutely amazing.
Very few singers had such a voice as Layne. I miss him so very much. Thankfully we still have music and video.
Layne was no joke! Absolute master vocalist! My favorite!
Sludge Factory mtv unplugged is a must react. Layne's voice is so wonderfull (as always), but seriously, what a song
with the false start error as well gives it more depth… “it’s how these things go”
I’d vote for got me wrong on the unplugged set…
or just more AiC in general ❤
@@realthiessmonkeyEasily the best of the entire "Unplugged" series. Sean Kinney was the unsung hero of that entire show. He kept it from going off the rails multiple times.
I remember when that Unplugged album came out, I went up to Camelot music to check it out. I looked at the track listing and was quite surprised, and even a little dismayed, that there were these kind of obscenely heavy tracks on it while stuff that seemed more in line with "unplugged" (like Rain When I Die or I Stay Away) were absent. Anyway, they had the whole cd on a listening post and I stood there, entranced, through the whole thing. Sludge Factory, Angry Chair and Frogs all became vastly different songs and all those heavier tracks became my favorites from the show. Really proved themselves as band with that set. Nothing else like it.
Layne Staley had the most unique beautiful haunting voice period. RIP legend … you will never be forgotten. ❤ I recommend Alice in Chains- Rotten Apple ❤
I second Rotten Apple, I love the build up!
I’ve been an Alice in Chains fan for over 20 years now, and this is one of my favourite songs. It’s just beautiful
This album was written and recorded in 7 days. There is no greater commentary on the genius of this band.
One of my biggest takeaways from A.I.C. and performances like Temple of the Dog (with Chris Cornell and Eddie Vedder) were how often the vocals were layered with close-mic compressed growls and singing layered with full on vocal wailing or belting at the same time. It perfectly captures the dichotomy of frustration, anger, wanting to scream at the clouds or people in power. Very indicative of the era and the genre, but so perfectly used. ☮❤🎶
Great analysis
I celebrate their entire catalog, but for me this is the most 'moving' record they ever made. There was a hopefulness to it, something positive growing out of the ashes of a burnt past. Sean's drumming is also incredible, not only the playing but how they mic'd and recorded it. The clarity and precision of the hi hat and splashes on 'No Excuses' still gets me every time.
I see what you did there. Not that I disagree!
@@JGNM-mp9cs I didn't see what they did there?
I love the “hopefulness” sound of some of the bands of this era, especially AIC. When you’re expecting a dissonant, minor change or rhythm they switch it beautifully to something major, harmonic and rhythmically interesting.
Oh, but the video, the music video goes together with the song's mood and atmosphere so well!!! And it's Alice in Chains in claymation form!!!
Your passionate and articulate commentary makes me appreciate bands, musicians & vocalists even more. Love what you share on your channel! ❤
One of my favorite bands of all time,RIP Layne
Leaves you wanting more. The album is so short. Man they packed alot of quality into such a short album. Haunting.
Everything about this song is fantastic. The guitar, the tone, the groove, the vocals, the production...it's the Total Package. Great, great song. It just sounds cool.
Layne was and is still my all-time favorite singer, the whole Jar Of Flies EP album is awesome.
This album specifically " nutshell" hurt my heart, knowing how one of the most influential voices of my lifetime was snuffed, will forever leave a mark on my musical heart😢❤ and he wasn't the only one from this band, so sad.
It’s so wonderful to relive all these songs with your analysis, thank you. 🙏🏻
Jerry Cantrell ..IS the genius that defines A.I.C. His song and sonic compositions are purely brilliant. And Layne was definitely the "Icing on the Cake".. Brilliant songwriting. 👏
Layne actually wrote this song when he got out of rehab. People think Jerry wrote every song and that's just not true.
It’s not AIC without Layne.
Layne is more than just the icing on the cake. Listen to the song 'Angry Chair'-which he wrote.
'Loneliness is not a phase, field of pain is where I graze' ... that's as good as anything Jerry has written. They were both super talented in their own right(s), but playing and singing together is what took them to a whole 'nother level.
@@arthurbishop3173lyricwise yes. He talking about composition..as in structuring the layers of songs. Not just vocal prowess or words.
@@darkslide420but did he orchestrate it. Like each layer
My favorite Alice In Chains song! Thank you for doing this song!
It's good, but it not Nutshell ;)
I never knew they never performed live.
Mercy. One of my all time favorite AIC recordings. I dearly wish this one would have made it onto the unplugged performance. It is a powerful song with the intricate production values and I appreciate the skill, talent, and creativity that went into it. But to hear a stripped down, acoustic version would have been exquisite I bet. Can't wait for this to premiere.
Layne Staley is an incredible singers. I love that sound.
Brother from their unplugged session is underrated. Great lyrics and acapella harmonies.
Easily my favorite AIC song. I am glad you enjoyed it. Rotten Apple from the same album is also outstanding.
Layne did his 0wn back up in the studio...layers of harmonies .JERRY said the band was amazed every time they would listen to Laynes track for most of the final results of the songs b c he would perfectly record all the harmonies in one take .Of course we know he is a musical genius a master of his craft .Jerry also said when he would stand beside him on stage Laynes voice would actually vibrate outside his body and was louder than the speakers !! We miss him !
I loved this song from the first time I heard it. Beautiful and haunting indeed. Now at 55 years old, it's almost a flashback on my entire life. The good, the bad and the very ugly. It makes me happy and brings tears to my eyes every time. It is absolutely my most favorite AIC song. \,,/
Wow, I feel exactly the same about this song. I’m 56, I never tried putting it into words, but you did an awesome job explaining how it fits into your worldview, and mine also. Awesome man, glad I saw this comment.
Same here 54 and this brings me back
Layne had an amazing gift..he is deeply missed😢 one of best vocalist ever. I didn't know him but I have a lot of empathy and love for him because he put his soul while singing.
Watching you try and process that pre chorus was great.
Layne often layered very unique harmonies.
The " buzz" you were trying to process was just the layered part of Laynes voice he used in a buzzing of layered harmonies with a simultaneous use of more than one singing techniques of chest and nasals tones but the chest vioce is not exaxtly cut off.
Incredible voice. Incredible range control and control.
You can hear him use both many times at the same time in the a layered lowered register.
He had unreal control of both.
That is come together like a smarm with the clear tones mixed in.
I get what you meant.
Not everyone can hear all that.
You have a good trained ear.
Seeing you trying to process all that was really cool.
Layne used unique harmonies both with Jerry but the ones he laid down wirh his own voice amplified the already enormous presence of his voice and approach.
If you can single out the lower register harmony i would be impressed but the blending of those frequencies he burried in there is a swarm.
The " you're " weakness filled me.
You can hear it.
I know you can if you listen for it.
Layne was one of kind in his application of these things.
Watching you try to process all that was a treat.
Much ❤
I personally think Jar of Flies is their best work! Such incredible songwriting and No Excuses is easily my favorite AIC song
I agree. The album really brings out the feels.
yes, thank you! I thought I was the only person who felt this way.. don't get me wrong I love all the heavier stuff too, but jar of flies for me is them at their best.. the more stripped down acoustic stuff, I love it!
I think I have to agree with you! I go back to that album over and over 🙏🏻✨
This album was life changing, and packs as much power almost 30 years later
@@codycooper5768 Jar of Flies is a masterpiece. My favorite album/EP of all time.
Alice in Chains were always my go to to relieve frustrations. I absolutely still love them to this day. Sadly Layne couldn't find his release, a voice that will echo through eternity❤🔥
I have seen a thousand bands of many different genres and Alice in Chains is by far the best live band ever. Their harmonies are impossible to equal and they nailed it live.
Absolutely one of my favorite bands in my lifetime. Love Layne and Jerry’s harmonies. This is one of my favorite AIC songs. What a loss when we lost Layne.
20 years later, hearing things I never noticed before. Thanks
One of my Favorite AIC songs. Beautiful, meaningful, grungey. Brings it all in. His voice was one of a kind.
I think it's the dissonance and contrast of the ugly and beautiful parts of this song that make me never get tired of it. My fav AIC song
This song literally tears me up everytime I hear it. This album transcended genre and crossed over into pure beauty.
I get so nostalgic listening to this talented guy. The band is great as well. Layne had a wonderful voice, wish he was still here making music. RIP brother.
Everytime I hear Layne singing I tear up.
I love AiC. Layne had such an amazing voice. Jerry had pipes and an amazing guitar player/song writer.
Jerry fuckin rules, Layne no doubt was one of the all time great rock voices but Jerry is one of the best songwriters ever and was by far the biggest creative behind AICs music, he was the mastermind. Pair that with Layne’s incredible vocals and you got one of the best duos in music history and one of the best bands ever in general. It’s a shame that duo was so short lived because of Layne’s struggles
@@puppetmaster8551 I fully agree.
Thanks for doing Alice in Chains again. There'll never be another Lane. He's that distinctive and good. Miss his voice so much.
He's so distinctive you don't even know how to spell his name 🤦♂️
@@jeneraljax29 I think that just was the fkn' autocorrect...
@@alexnagy2044 not so sure about that but even still, it's no excuse, then I know.