How Alice In Chains’ “Choke” Was A Perfect Closure For Their Album “The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here”

March 20, 2025

Alice in Chains had been through a tremendous journey, one filled with ups and downs that mirrored the struggles many people face in life. When they released their album “The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here,” fans were eager to see how the band had evolved. But it was the final track, “Choke,” that resonated deeply with both the band and their listeners, acting as a powerful closure not just to the album but to a chapter in their lives.

As the band recorded “Choke,” they poured their souls into every note and lyric. The song speaks about the feeling of being overwhelmed and the weight of expectations that can suffocate a person. Lead singer William DuVall, who brought a fresh energy to the band after Layne Staley’s passing, delivered a haunting performance that captured the essence of struggle and resilience. It was as if he was singing not only for himself but for every person who ever felt trapped in their emotions. The raw emotion in the song mirrored the challenges the band faced over the years, from addiction to loss. It wasn’t just a song; it was a battle cry for those standing at the edge, reminding them that hope and strength can emerge from despair.

When the final notes of “Choke” faded out, listeners were left in a powerful moment of reflection. The song’s heavy guitars and haunting melodies created an atmosphere that felt both heavy and liberating. Many fans shared how the song helped them confront their own struggles, whether it was dealing with anxiety, loss, or personal failures. In this sense, “Choke” became a beacon of hope, teaching everyone that while life may pose challenges, embracing vulnerability could lead to healing and strength. It resonated with the idea that even in the darkest times, there is a spark of light waiting to break through.

For Alice in Chains, “Choke” marked not just the end of an album but a significant turning point in their career. After years of navigating the waves of grief and recovery, the band had finally found a way to channel their pain into something beautiful. The emotional depth of the song reminded fans that life is a mix of highs and lows, and through it all, music can serve as a powerful outlet for healing. The band’s resilience became a testament to their dedication, showing that they were not just survivors but warriors who embraced their battles with honesty.

In the years that followed, “Choke” continued to resonate with fans across generations, symbolizing the power of music to uplift and inspire. The song stood as a reminder that every struggle is an opportunity for growth and that even when choking on life’s challenges, there is a way to find your voice again. Alice in Chains transformed their pain into a message of hope, proving to everyone that no matter how hard life gets, the spirit of resilience can shine through the darkest of times. Their journey showed that music, at its core, is about connection, vulnerability, and the shared human experience of overcoming adversity.