
Credited as an Ament/Gossard composition, this track is oddly enough all about Vedder’s vocals. Of all the powerful songs on Pearl Jam’s sophomore album–“Go,” “Blood,” “Leash” and many more, none carried the weight that the closing track, “Indifference,” did. The “oh, the blue sky it’s his home” section is, up until that point, a crowning achievement in Pearl Jam’s studio history. While “In My Tree” doesn’t have the psychadelic prowess of “Nothing As It Seems” it is still very much a departure outside of the grunge rock sound Pearl Jam developed in the early-90’s. Drummer Jack Irons, who is credited on this song along with Stone Gossard and Eddie Vedder, delivers one of the most stunning drum tracks you’ll ever hear, somehow weaving a beautiful melody into a frantic drum beat. If not for the line in the beginning that says “ I’m trading stories with the leaves instead,” this track is a clinic in recording. Binaural also serves as Pearl Jam’s most experimental album to date. In truth, the Binaural sessions came during a dark time in the band’s history and this song, along with several others on the record, reflect that. Guitarist Mike McCready truly shines with his Gilmour-like tone. Vedder’s lyrics will, to put it bluntly, haunt you ( A scratching voice all alone, there’s nothing like your baritone/ It’s nothing as it seems, the little that he needs, it’s home) with their overtly dark themes and in-your-face wordplay. “Nothing As It Seems” is a true sonic (binaural) adventure that one can only fully appreciate through excellent headphones. These five minutes and twenty-two seconds are what Pearl Jam fans hope heaven sounds like. The quintessential Pearl Jam studio track. Now, here are fifteen essential Pearl Jam studio tracks every fan should hear. Mostly known for their live show, Pearl Jam also has an established history with releasing excellent studio tracks. Today Pearl Jam celebrates the release of their tenth studio album Lightning Bolt.
