The 5 Best Grunge Albums (and EPS) of the 1980s

Here are the five best grunge albums and EPs released in the 1980s.

Before grunge became a full on cultural phenomenon in the early 1990s, the scene was already taking shape in the Pacific Northwest in the mid to late 1980s.

A growing network of independent labels, local clubs, and a tight circle of bands in Seattle and its surrounding areas were experimenting with moodier riffs, distorted guitar tones, and a punk attitude based less in image and more in reality. Many of the early grunge records were modest not only in reach, but in recording budget; taking on more of a DIY approach than many of their contemporaries.

READ MORE: 5 ’90s Grunge Lyrics That Are Just Too Painful

Although to the mainstream it felt like grunge hit overnight with the release of Nirvana‘s Nevermind and the overwhelming, culture-shifting impact of a song like “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” the genre had been long underway for years, developing gradually and organically through limited-press EP’s, local touring circuits, college radio airplay, and word of mouth.

These albums helped define the sound, tone, and identity of grunge at the genre’s core.

Not only was grunge around in the 1980s, ’80s hair metal bands even tried making grunge albums in the ’90s!

Don’t believe us? Take a look below to learn more.

Subscribe to Loudwire on YouTube.