Nirvana: In Bloom [unmixed]
By tunequest May 14, 2008
Was doing some web-sleuthing this afternoon and ran across this video excerpt from the Classic Albums documentary series episode about Nirvana’s Nevermind. The short clip features producer Butch Vig demonstrating the individual mixing tracks from In Bloom, commenting on its various parts and pieces, from the awesome groove of the isolated drums and bass (which they got on the first take), to Dave’s harmonizing on the chorus.
I was actually quite surprised to learn about Dave’s singing contributions. I’ve been listening to In Bloom for 17 years now and I had no idea that Dave Grohl had performed any vocals for the song. I can clearly hear it now that its been pointed out, but for nearly two decades I thought it was just studio effects. Amazingly, after all this time, I’m still learning Nevermind’s tricks.
In Bloom has always been a favorite of mine, so I particularly enjoyed this fascinating look at its skeleton.
In Bloom deconstructed:
Here’s a Google Video of what appears to be the entire documentary. It starts with a similar deconstruction of Drain You, perhaps the most complex song on Nevermind (squeaky toys and five overlayed guitar tracks!), then continues with anecdotes by Dave, Krist and Butch recounting how the record was made.
hat tip to MixMyMusic.net
Great vid. Got about half way through. Brings back memories for sure - can’t believe it’s been like - 17 years.
I’m mentally preparing myself for when all the landmark albums of my youth have their 20th anniversaries celebrated.
[...] Nirvana In Bloom Unmixed: Tunequest finds a cool Nirvana documentary where producer Butch Vig talks about the making of the song In Bloom. I think we’re at the point (nearly two decades years later) where Nirvana is unquestionably a band for the ages. After all, that’s why they are in Rock Band and mentioned in Definitely Maybe. [...]
Would be much more interested in seeing footage of Steve Albini working with Nirvana on their In Utero album. The finest recording of the band when they were at their creative peak and ultimately their final studio album.