How Alice In Chains’ “Hollow” Brought Back Their Classic Sound

March 20, 2025

It was a chilly autumn afternoon when I first heard Alice in Chains’ song “Hollow.” I remember sitting in my room, surrounded by posters of my favorite bands, when the haunting guitar riffs filled the air. The song transported me to another world, one filled with shadows and emotions that I could feel deep in my bones. Little did I know, this track marked a remarkable comeback for a band that had battled its own demons for years. Alice in Chains, once a titan of the grunge era, had faced numerous challenges, including the tragic loss of their original lead singer, Layne Staley. Yet, here they were, releasing music that resonated with the heart and soul of their classic sound.

The journey had not been easy for Alice in Chains. After Layne’s passing in 2002, the band struggled to find its footing. Many wondered if they would ever make music again. It wasn’t until 2009, when William DuVall joined as the new lead singer, that fans felt a glimmer of hope. Still, the pressure was immense. Fans of the band were hesitant; could they embrace a new voice carrying the weight of such a storied legacy? But when “Hollow” was released in 2013, something magical happened. The song’s heavy riffs and haunting lyrics stirred something deep within the listeners, reminding us of the raw power that Alice in Chains was known for.

As I listened to “Hollow,” I could feel the pain and struggle in the lyrics, but there was also a sense of resilience. The song spoke of emptiness and longing, themes that seemed to echo the struggles the band faced throughout the years. Yet, it also hinted at a glimmer of hope, a belief that even in darkness, there could still be light. I could sense that the band had poured their souls into this music, and in return, they had rediscovered their identity. It was a crucial turning point, not just for them but for countless fans who had followed their journey and were eager to see them rise again.

The impact of “Hollow” was profound. It reintroduced Alice in Chains to the music world, allowing them to reclaim their place in the grunge scene and earn new fans along the way. The song reached the top of the charts and solidified their comeback. Critics praised the band for blending the old with the new, showing that they hadn’t lost their edge. More than just a song, “Hollow” became a symbol of resilience and strength, a message that even after loss and struggle, creativity and passion could flourish once more.

For Alice in Chains, “Hollow” was more than just a successful single; it was a testament to their journey. The band had faced trials that could have easily broken them, but instead, they used those experiences to fuel their art. As I played the song on repeat, I felt inspired by their story. It reminded me that even when life seems challenging and the road ahead feels uncertain, there is always a way to rise again. Just like Alice in Chains, we all have our own battles to fight, but with resilience and passion, we can create something beautiful from our struggles.