Just when you thought that the Soundgarden dispute was over…
Ever since Chris Cornell died, the surviving members of Soundgarden have been battling with Chris’ widow Vicky over money and the vocal demos Chris left behind.
“Wait,” you say, “Wasn’t this resolved back in April?” Well, yes, it was. Those vocal files were freed up and Soundgarden was planning to finish up those songs and release them. I quote:
“The reconciliation marks a new partnership between the two parties, which will allow Soundgarden fans around the world to hear the final songs that the band and Chris were working on.
“The two parties are united and coming together to propel, honour and build upon Soundgarden’s incredible legacy as well as Chris’s indelible mark on music history – as one of the greatest songwriters and vocalists of all time.”
Yeah, well, no.
According to drummer Matt Cameron, “We’re still in the middle of a dispute with the estate. Everything is on hold right now. As of right now, it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen next year. Hopefully soon. I’m not giving up hope.”
During this interview with The Vinyl Guide podcast, seven songs are at the heart of the problem: Cancer and Stone Age Mind (both written entirely by Cornell); Road Less Traveled, Orphans and At Ophians Door (co-written with Matt Cameron); Ahead Of The Dog (a co-write with guitarist Kim Thayil); and Merrmas (co-written with bassist Ben Shepherd).
The wait continues.
