Kim Thayil, Soundgarden guitarist, publishes memoir and announces last album featuring Chris Cornell’s vocals.

Soundgarden’s Kim Thayil has recently released his memoir, entitled “A Screaming Life: Into the Superunknown with Soundgarden and Beyond,” published by Harper Collins’ William Morrow imprint. Within the memoir, Thayil reveals that he, along with Matt Cameron and Ben Shepherd, are in the process of completing what will be the band’s final album. This album will feature vocal tracks recorded by the late Chris Cornell before his passing in 2017.

Spanning almost 300 pages, Thayil’s memoir, co-written with Seattle music journalist Adem Tepedelen, delves into the history of Soundgarden from its formation in 1984 to the present day, touching upon the life and tragic death of Chris Cornell. Despite Cornell’s passing, Thayil, along with his bandmates, had been actively writing and recording material before the untimely death of their frontman. Thayil explained in an interview with SPIN that although the band had been in the process of creating new music, they are now focused on finalizing what they had started with Cornell.

Thayil went on to explain that the new tracks for the upcoming album date back to demos from the King Animal recording sessions in 2012. However, progress has been slow due to the complexities of securing rights from Cornell’s estate. Without the support of a record label to provide resources and guidance, Thayil described the process as more of a forensic endeavor, needing to decipher what is available and work around the existing vocal recordings.

The memoir also sheds light on some challenging moments in Soundgarden’s history, such as the band’s breakup in 1997. Thayil revealed that contrary to the public image of an amicable split, it was, in fact, Chris Cornell who decided to leave the band. Thayil further disclosed that when Cornell initially joined the band as a singing drummer, there were doubts about his vocals, with the idea of finding a new vocalist if needed.

Looking towards the future, Thayil discussed the possibility of performing the new music with a guest vocalist. The remaining members of Soundgarden had already performed with guest vocalists, such as Brandi Carlile and Taylor Momsen, at special events honoring Cornell. Thayil emphasized the importance of playing and honoring the music they created with Cornell, even if it means working with someone new.

In conclusion, Kim Thayil’s memoir offers fans a glimpse into the inner workings of Soundgarden, from its inception to its continued legacy. The confirmation of a final album featuring Chris Cornell’s vocals serves as a bittersweet yet fitting tribute to the band’s storied history.