Temple of the Dog (Eddie Vedder) - Temple of the Dog (1991)
Overview
Temple of the Dog is the self-titled debut and only studio album by the Seattle-based supergroup Temple of the Dog, released on April 16, 1991 through A&M Records. The band was formed as a tribute to Andrew Wood, the late lead singer of Mother Love Bone, who passed away in 1990 from a heroin overdose. The album is a powerful fusion of members from what would soon become Pearl Jam and Soundgarden, including Eddie Vedder, Chris Cornell, Stone Gossard, Jeff Ament, Mike McCready, and Matt Cameron.
Release Date: April 16, 1991
Label: A&M Records
Genre: Grunge, Alternative Rock
Album Type: Studio Album
Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 16 on Billboard Heatseekers, later certified Platinum
Tracklist:
1. Say Hello 2 Heaven
2. Hunger Strike
3. Reach Down
4. Call Me a Dog
5. Pushin Forward Back
6. Times of Trouble
7. Wooden Jesus
8. Your Savior
9. Four Walled World
10. All Night Thing
Why You Should Listen
Temple of the Dog represents a heartfelt, raw tribute wrapped in some of the early ’90s grunge’s finest songwriting and performances. The haunting ballad “Say Hello 2 Heaven” and the unforgettable duet “Hunger Strike” (featuring Vedder and Cornell trading vocals) stand as enduring anthems of loss, hope, and friendship. The album perfectly captures the dark yet melodic essence of Seattle’s grunge scene at its birth.
Fun Facts & Trivia
🎤 First Eddie Vedder Recording: This album contains Eddie Vedder’s first official recording, predating Pearl Jam’s debut by a year, and introduced his voice to the world.
🎸 Chris Cornell’s Vision: Cornell wrote most of the songs as a tribute to his late friend Andrew Wood, channeling grief into powerful, emotional music.
🎤 “Hunger Strike” Breakout: The duet “Hunger Strike” became the band’s most iconic song and received heavy MTV rotation, helping launch Vedder’s career.
🎸 Unintentional Supergroup: The project started as a one-off tribute but became legendary as members went on to define the 1990s rock scene.
🎧 Unique Sound: The album blends hard rock, punk energy, and soulful melodies, distinguishing it from other grunge records of the time.
A Timeless Grunge Classic
Temple of the Dog remains a moving snapshot of Seattle’s musical revolution and an emotional homage that transcends time. It’s essential listening for fans of grunge, ’90s rock, and heartfelt songwriting.
