Nirvana

MTV Unplugged in New York [live]

Kurt Cobain bares his naked soul to the world

Review Score:

(10/10)
"MTV Unplugged in New York" has got to be the most unique and fascinating record in Nirvana's entire discography. Kurt sings with such pain and emotion that is seems that this record is something Kurt would never want to seep through the cracks. Nirvana presented to the world just how deep and diverse their songwriting can be. If the discovery of grunge wasn't enough, this album spins those feelings and sounds into exciting new directions, showcasing pure originality. Kurt's hurt and suicidal tendencies are overflowing at times, even when he's trying to suppress those feelings. There are few albums in history that bare a songwriter's naked soul as vividly as this record does.

Not only do the unplugged versions hit harder than the originals in many cases, but they also play six covers that are equally satisfying. Covers of David Bowie's "The Man Who Sold the World," Leadbelly's folk standard "Where Did You Sleep Last Night," and the Meat Puppets' "Lake of Fire" carry just as much meaning as the originals. Other standouts include "About a Girl," "Come as You Are," my personal favorite "Pennyroyal Tea," and "Polly".

This record captures Kurt at the most vulnerable point in his career. The weight it carries is nearly exhausting after listening to the whole record. Nonetheless, Nirvana shows just how multi-faceted they can be, while simultaneously reinventing the grunge rock scene.

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