One year following the release of Nevermind, Nirvana's sophomore album and an unforeseen cultural phenomenon, internal drama created stumbling blocks and uncertainty regarding the band's future. Despite continued skepticism largely fueled by the media, in February 1993 Nirvana gathered in rural Minnesota with maverick producer Steve Albini to record their third studio album. Regardless of the promising scenario, coupled with the band's cathartic material, doubt during the ensuing months remained a common denominator surrounding what would ultimately prove to be their final album - Nirvana's last stand.
