Alice in Chains’ MTV Unplugged is widely considered one of the greatest live performances in rock history. Recorded on April 10, 1996, at the Majestic Theatre in Brooklyn, it marked the band’s first live appearance in over two years. The live album was released on July 30, 1996, by Columbia Records. The album debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 chart. It received a varied response, garnering praise for recreations of the band’s heavier material but showing indifference toward already-acoustic recordings as found on Sap and Jar of Flies.
Key Highlights
Layne Staley‘s Performance: Despite his visible struggle with health and addiction, Staley‘s vocal performance is often described as “powerful” and “chilling”.
The Setlist: The band performed acoustic versions of hits like “Nutshell,” “Would?,” and “Rooster,” and introduced a new song, “The Killer Is Me“.
Mike Inez: famously wrote “Friends Don’t Let Friends Get Friends Haircuts…” on his bass, a lighthearted dig at the members of Metallica (who were in the audience) for cutting their hair short.
The Atmosphere: The stage was uniquely decorated with dozens of candles and red lava lamps, contributing to the intimate, somber mood.
