Fans of Soundgarden have been given a fantastic treat with the official release of professionally filmed footage from their 2012 performance at the Pinkpop Festival. On May 27, 2012, the legendary Seattle-based grunge band took to the stage in Landgraaf, Netherlands, delivering a memorable 13-song set that showcased their distinctive sound and lasting influence on rock music.
The concert captured an impressive setlist that included fan favorites like “Spoonman,” “Black Hole Sun,” and “Rusty Cage,” alongside powerful tracks such as “Jesus Christ Pose,” “Fell On Black Days,” and “Slaves & Bulldozers.”
Full setlist was as follows:
- “Searching With My Good Eye Closed”
- “Spoonman”
- “Jesus Christ Pose”
- “Let Me Drown”
- “Blow Up The Outside World”
- “Fell On Black Days”
- “My Wave”
- “Room A Thousand Years Wide”
- “Outshined”
- “Rusty Cage”
- “Black Hole Sun”
- “Live To Rise”
- “Slaves & Bulldozers”
Soundgarden’s journey began in 1984 when Chris Cornell, Kim Thayil, and Hiro Yamamoto formed the band in Seattle’s thriving music scene. They were at the forefront of the grunge movement, blending heavy metal, punk, and alternative rock into a unique and influential sound. The addition of Matt Cameron on drums and Ben Shepherd on bass helped solidify their lineup and sharpen their musical identity.
The band’s breakthrough came with the 1994 album Superunknown, which produced hits like “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman,” both earning Grammy Awards and elevating Soundgarden to international stardom. Despite their success, creative differences led to their split in 1997. However, the band reunited in 2010 and released King Animal two years later, proving their enduring chemistry and passion for music.
The sudden passing of Chris Cornell in 2017 was a heartbreaking moment for fans worldwide. Yet, the release of this pristine Pinkpop footage offers a powerful reminder of Soundgarden’s raw energy and artistic brilliance, preserving their legacy for new and longtime listeners alike.
