is Worse," from the second all stand out as typically wonderful Gordon songs recorded to listen to over and over again. But it's "Seether" that stands out as THE Veruca Salt song.
Letters to Cleo
Letters to Cleo exploded in 1993 when their first single "Here & Now" was featured on the "Melrose Place" soundtrack. The Boston band, lead by Kay Hanley, would have songs on other soundtracks throughout their run, including a cover of The Cars' "Dangerous Type," in the film "The Craft," and three songs on the "10 Things I Hate About You" soundtrack. The hard and happy songs "I See" and "Awake" were among the band's other singles during their four-album run. Hanley started a solo career and also sang on most of the songs on the "Josie and the Pussycats" soundtrack.
"Here and Now" for it's punching guitar and lyrically impossible chorus, remains one of the best songs of the 90s.
Garbage
Garbage, led by Scottish lead singer Shirley Manson, hit the scene in 1995 with their debut album and singles "Queer," "Stupid Girl," and "Only Happy When it Rains." As successful as this album was, it was the sophomore effort, "Version 2.0," that really garnered the accolades, receiving multiple Grammy nominations, and featuring an amazing set of songs, including "I Think I'm Paranoid," "Push it," and "When I Grow Up."
From an album that seems impossible great, the truly impossible songs "I Think I'm Paranoid" and "Push it" are the quintessential Garbage songs, and among the best of any genre of the 90s.
Belly
Like Hatfield and Letters to Cleo, Belly was based in Boston. It was formed in 1991 by former Throwing Muses and Breeders member Tanya Donelly. The band released two albums, "Star," and "King." The former was nominated for two Grammys and featured the singles "Gepetto," "Slow Dog," and the MTV hit "Feed the Tree." "King" is a much more rock-oriented album. The singles, "Now They'll Sleep," and "Super-Connected" failed to match the success that the first album singles did. Donelly broke up the band in 1996 and pursued a solo career.
The two "King" singles stand as amazing songs with outstanding choruses, the kind of songs Donelly would continue to produce as a solo artist.
Learn more about this author, Michael Frissore.
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