Beyond Nirvana: 10 essential under-the-radar grunge records from the Seattle era

Girl Trouble
Hit it or Quit It
(K/Sub Pop, 1988)

Listen / Buy

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The North West’s gnarly guitar sound had deep roots and they were planted firmly in Tacoma. It’s only fitting that a Tacoma band kept the garage rock vibe of the Sixties alive and even more appropriate that they’ve outlived everyone and are still kicking it today. All the Olympia/Seattle rivalry obscures the early ties between the premier labels in each town — and both K and Sub Pop thought highly enough of this album to come together and pay to get it out there. It’s got barroom energy, bubble, bounce! It’s a good night on good liquor caught on tape.

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