Alice In Chains Sap (EP) – 1992
RMR Album Rating- 6 (Good)

Sap is a four song acoustic EP that shows Alice In Chains taking a break from their signature metal sound.

For almost any other metal band, this would have been a death wish. But with the release of Sap, Alice Chains actually became more popular. There are two reasons for this. First, grunge and alternative rock fans are more accepting of acoustic music than metal fans. But more importantly, the songs are outstanding. Sap still sounds like Alice In Chains; it just shows there is more to the band’s sound than menacing guitar riffs.

“Brother” is a great opener that features guest vocals from Ann Wilson of Heart. She also adds vocals on “Am I Inside.” Her contribution is subtle and fits the music perfectly on both songs. “Am I Inside” features my favorite lyrics and chorus on the album. The lyrics were penned by Staley. So as you would expect, they are dark, but they are also telling. Staley was dealing with a heroin addiction and was severely depressed, and Ann Wilson had become seriously overweight and was also battling depression. Here is the chorus: “Black is all I feel so this is how it feels to be free/ Miles beside himself, miles below himself/ Miles behind himself.” They conclude the chorus by asking “am I inside myself,” which considering their personal situations is truly moving and heartfelt.

My favorite track on the record is “Got Me Wrong.” It is the only song that is not fully acoustic. Cantrell adds electric guitar that drives into each chorus, which sounds profoundly powerful compared to the rest of the acoustic instrumentation.

Although Sap is a simple 4-song release, it shows a different side of Alice In Chains not found on their full length records. This makes it a must own album for Alice In Chains fans and a worthwhile release for general rock fans who are not already familiar with the band.

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