Nirvana – In Utero

In Utero is the third and final studio album by American rock band Nirvana, released on September 21, 1993, by DGC Records. After breaking into the mainstream with their second album, Nevermind (1991), Nirvana hired Steve Albini to record In Utero, seeking a more complex, abrasive sound.

Recording took place over two weeks in February 1993 at Pachyderm Studio in Cannon Falls, Minnesota. Soon after recording was completed, rumors circulated that DGC might not release In Utero due to Albini’s abrasive sound. Producer Scott Litt was hired to remix the singles “All Apologies”, “Heart-Shaped Box” and “Pennyroyal Tea”, upsetting Albini.

In Utero was a major commercial and critical success. Critics praised the change in sound and Cobain’s lyrics. It reached number one on the US Billboard 200 and UK Albums Chart; “Heart-Shaped Box” and “All Apologies” reached number one on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. The album is certified five-times platinum and has sold 15 million copies.

In Utero was the final Nirvana album before Cobain’s suicide in 1994. “Pennyroyal Tea”, planned as a single prior to Cobain’s death, was released in 2014 and reached number one on the Billboard Hot Singles Sales Chart.