Soundgarden's "Badmotorfinger" Showed Off Chris Cornell's Powerful Voice

Continuing on with our series of Chris Cornell reviews, and this time we're taking a look at one of his finer vocal performances. Soundgarden's Badmotorfinger showed off Chris Cornell's powerful voice, giving him the chance to truly belt powerfully and relentlessly and show the true extent to his vocal prowess.

The first thing you'll notice about Badmotorfinger is its more calculated approach to its rebellious attitude. Unlike the unrestrained chaos of Ultramega OK or the brooding anger of Superunknown, its both angry yet understanding of what it needs to accomplish. It's the perfect transition between the two. Opening track 'Rusty Cage' introduces it in the right way, its chaotic intro going into a more rebellious attitude that exemplifies the album. Huge riffs from 'Jesus Christ Pose' and the alternative aggression of 'Somewhere' help add to its more restrained, understanding approach to its tirade.

What makes Badmotorfinger stand out is undoubtedly Cornell's performance. Cornell's vocals are immense throughout Badmotorfinger, first really showing in 'Outshined.' The more rock n' roll vibe gives him the ability to really let lose and roar. 'Mind Riot' takes a chiller approach to the instrumental, but Cornell's huge vocals explode above it, letting the vocals really take off. 'Slaves & Bulldozers' explodes from start to finish, its angry, massive delivery showing energy from all ends. Chris Cornell is undoubtedly the star of the record, though the entire band really shines here. Even the production is strong - the saxophones at the end of 'Face Pollution' are a nice and subtle touch.

Soundgarden's Badmotorfinger showed off Chris Cornell's powerful voice, really exemplifying his musicianship. From start to finish, Badmotorfinger is angry, emotional, and powerful, never missing the opportunity to make its message heard. It's grunge at its finest.

Favorite Tracks: Slaves & Bulldozers, Jesus Christ Pose, Holy Water

Least Favorite Track: Mind Riot

Rating: 81 / 100

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