Core - CD Music

Stone Temple Pilots, one of the most iconic alternative rock bands of the 1990s, was formed in San Diego, California, in 1989. The band's original lineup included Scott Weiland (vocals), Dean DeLeo (guitar), Robert DeLeo (bass), and Eric Kretz (drums). The band is known for its dynamic sound that combines elements of grunge, hard rock, and alternative rock.

The band's debut album, "Core," was released in 1992 and quickly catapulted Stone Temple Pilots to success. Featuring tracks like "Plush," "Creep," "Sex Type Thing," and "Wicked Garden," the album was a commercial and critical success, achieving multiple platinum certifications and establishing the band as a dominant force in the grunge and alternative rock scene. "Plush" won a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance, further solidifying the band's popularity.

In 1994, they released their second album, "Purple," which was equally well-received. The album included hits such as "Vasoline," "Interstate Love Song," and "Big Empty," demonstrating the band's ability to create catchy and melodic rock anthems. "Purple" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 charts and cemented Stone Temple Pilots' status as one of the leading rock bands of the 1990s.

The third album, "Tiny Music... Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop," was released in 1996 and featured a more experimental and diverse sound. With tracks like "Big Bang Baby," "Lady Picture Show," and "Trippin' on a Hole in a Paper Heart," the album demonstrated the band's willingness to evolve and experiment with new musical styles.

Despite their continued success, the band faced significant challenges, including Scott Weiland's substance abuse problems, which led to several hiatuses and internal issues. However, Stone Temple Pilots continued to release music, including the albums "No. 4" (1999) and "Shangri-La Dee Da" (2001), which included hits such as "Sour Girl," "Down," and "Days of the Week."

After a prolonged hiatus, the band reunited in 2008 and released a self-titled album in 2010. However, tensions with Weiland continued to affect the band, leading to his permanent departure in 2013. Weiland was replaced by Chester Bennington, vocalist of Linkin Park, who recorded the EP "High Rise" with the band in 2013. Bennington left the band in 2015 to focus on Linkin Park.

Tragically, Scott Weiland passed away in 2015, and Chester Bennington passed away in 2017. Following these losses, Stone Temple Pilots held auditions to find a new vocalist and eventually chose Jeff Gutt, who joined the band in 2017. With Gutt, the band released a self-titled album in 2018, followed by "Perdida" in 2020, which explored a more acoustic and introspective sound.

Stone Temple Pilots is known for their energetic live performances and ability to create music that resonates deeply with fans. The combination of the instrumental talent of the DeLeo brothers, the precision of Eric Kretz, and the charismatic vocals of Weiland (and later Gutt) secured them a lasting place in the hearts of rock fans.

The band's music is often characterized by powerful guitar riffs, groovy bass lines, and lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and introspection. Stone Temple Pilots left an indelible mark on rock music, influencing many bands and continuing to attract new generations of fans.