Nirvana

In December 1989, when Nirvana performed “Polly” at the London Astoria, they were still on the rise, fresh off the release of their debut album, *Bleach*, which hit the shelves in 1989. However, it was during this performance that the seeds of their later explosive popularity were sown, as the band was working to refine their sound before the world caught on with the release of *Nevermind* two years later. Curiously, *Polly* is not just any song; it dives into dark themes reflecting real-life events, showcasing Kurt Cobain's knack for stirring storytelling. Interestingly, this live recording later appeared on the compilation album *From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah* in 1996, which captures the raw energy of their performances. It’s a snapshot of a band that was just beginning to find its voice—gritty, unapologetic, and inevitably influential. The kind of performance that makes you wonder how such a raw moment would resonate with fans today.

Watch on YouTube