Alice In Chains
Biography
Alice in Chains is an American rock band formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1987. Although often associated with grunge music, the band's sound incorporates heavy metal and hard rock elements. The original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Layne Staley, guitarist and vocalist Jerry Cantrell, bassist Mike Starr, and drummer Sean Kinney. The band is known for its distinctive vocal style, which often featured the harmonized vocals of Staley and Cantrell.
Formation and Early Success
The band was formed in 1987 when guitarist Jerry Cantrell and drummer Sean Kinney recruited vocalist Layne Staley and bassist Mike Starr. They signed with Columbia Records in 1989 and released their debut album, Facelift, in 1990. The album featured the hit single "Man in the Box" and was certified double platinum. In 1992, the band released the acoustic EP Sap. Their second album, Dirt (1992), was a critical and commercial success, debuting at number six on the Billboard 200 and eventually being certified quintuple platinum. The album's lyrics dealt with dark themes of addiction and pain. Following the tour for Dirt, bassist Mike Starr left the band and was replaced by Mike Inez.
Height of Fame and Hiatus
In 1994, Alice in Chains released the acoustic EP Jar of Flies, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, a first for an EP. Their self-titled third album was released in 1995 and also debuted at number one. After 1996, the band became largely inactive due to Layne Staley's struggles with substance abuse. Although they never officially broke up, Staley became a recluse after the death of his ex-fiancée in 1996. The band's last performance with Staley was on July 3, 1996.
Tragedy and Reformation
On April 19, 2002, Layne Staley was found dead in his home from a drug overdose, with the date of death later determined to be April 5, 2002. Following Staley's death, the band went on hiatus. In 2005, the remaining members reunited for a benefit concert with several guest vocalists. In 2006, William DuVall joined the band as the new lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist. The reformed lineup has since released three studio albums: Black Gives Way to Blue (2009), The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here (2013), and Rainier Fog (2018). Original bassist Mike Starr passed away in 2011 after years of battling addiction.
Legacy and Current Lineup
Alice in Chains is considered one of the most influential bands of the 1990s grunge movement. They have sold over 30 million records worldwide. The current lineup consists of Jerry Cantrell, Sean Kinney, Mike Inez, and William DuVall. They continue to tour and record new music, carrying on the band's legacy.