They might not be the first band you think of when you hear the word “grunge” -- and that’s probably not all that bad -- but Soundgarden transcended Seattle in just about every possible way.

Although the band came together in 1984 around charismatic frontman Chris Cornell and quickly ascended to become the sweaty centerpiece of Seattle’s burgeoning underground scene, Soundgarden were originally regarded as a metal band -- albeit one that combined the majesty of Led Zeppelin with hardcore punk and psychedelic influences. Even after the G-word became ubiquitous in pop culture, Soundgarden played a ferocious brand of music all their own.

With the recent release of the rarities compilation, ‘Echo of Miles: Scattered Tracks Across the Path,’ we’re all privy to an inside look at what made (and continues to make) Soundgarden so special. In honor of such an occasion, we’re ranking each of the band’s six studio albums in the gallery above. Don't agree with our order? Comment and let us know how you'd rate them!

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