Even though the grunge music subgenre experienced a relatively brief period of prominence, we have curated an extensive list highlighting the most impactful grunge albums from each year spanning from 1987 to 1996. These selections showcase the evolution of this unique sound that blended punk rock influences with sludgy undertones.

The gritty, punk-infused rock style known as “grunge” only truly reached mainstream recognition in the early 1990s. However, the vibrant music scene from which it emerged began to take shape in the mid-1980s. Iconic bands like Melvins, Green River, Soundgarden, Screaming Trees, and Skin Yard came together between 1983 and 1985, performing in various venues across the Seattle area, thus laying the groundwork for what would become a major cultural phenomenon.

For a deeper understanding of the origins of this influential music genre, we invite you to watch our documentary titled “Who Invented Grunge?” available on our YouTube channel. This film features firsthand accounts from individuals who were integral to the scene’s development and offers invaluable insights.

Given the scarcity of official releases during the early years, we define the period from 1987 to 1996 as the authentic grunge era. While numerous bands associated with the grunge label continued to produce music well beyond 1996, our focus here is on capturing the rise, peak, and eventual decline of this iconic music scene, providing a comprehensive overview of its most significant contributions.

READ MORE: 12 Bands Considered Pioneers of Grunge

Although only a select few bands from the grunge scene achieved sustained success over several years, the wealth of music produced during this period remains ripe for exploration by both new and longtime fans alike. The rich catalog of sounds and styles from the grunge movement continues to resonate, influencing countless artists and genres.

In curating this list, we aimed to fairly represent the grunge music scene. However, certain artists garnered immense popularity for their distinctive sound and significant impact, with one band notably featuring three albums in our top picks. Their influence and contributions to the genre cannot be overstated.

To see our selections for the best grunge albums from each year between 1987 and 1996, scroll through the album covers displayed below. Each choice represents a milestone in the evolution of grunge, showcasing the raw energy and emotional depth characteristic of this remarkable genre.