The three core Seattle grunge bands (Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam) released their most accomplished albums in close succession across 1993 and '94. During this highly unique creative surge, several key peripheral bands also contributed their best work. Stone Temple Pilots' 1994 album Purple has to top that secondary list.

"Interstate Love Song," off that album, exemplifies what tuneful, catchy music STP could write.

There is still an edge and a heaviness to the song, as airy and pop-friendly as it is. It's no Gin Blossoms fabrication. The growly vocal of Scott Weiland helps ensure that. The wistful, sophisticated choruses also set it far out of reach of most songwriters' capabilities. It was a impressive time for proudly thoughtful, listenable, hearable heavy rock.