Kim Thayil Details 'Introspective' New Soundgarden Material

Guitarist Kim Thayil has offered a rare glimpse into the production of the upcoming Soundgarden album, describing the process of finishing the remaining material with the late Chris Cornell as a 'forensic' undertaking. The new record will feature eight tracks, including posthumous recordings from the years leading up to Cornell's death in 2017.

Thayil explained that the band had to work in a non-traditional direction, rebuilding performances from existing vocal tracks and rougher drum and instrumental sketches. The recordings, some of which have existed for up to 15 years, have been polished by producer Terry Date, with mixing duties handled by Joe Barresi. Thayil noted the work is a heavy responsibility, balancing their own creative output with the duty to honour their late frontman's work.

It's very, very important to all of us. It's important for the legacy of Soundgarden. It's important for the legacy of Chris Cornell.

Describing the sonic palette, Thayil suggests the material leans towards the introspective, blending "a lullaby paired with psychedelia." While the tracks feature a variety of writing credits between the remaining members—Matt Cameron, Ben Shepherd, and Cornell—the band is currently navigating the logistical hurdles of label contracts and promotional planning before a release date can be set.

This final body of work arrives as the Seattle icons prepare to be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025. The album aims to do "right by our collective work" and the legacy of their departed frontman.