Flashback to September 1996, and Seattle-based superstars Pearl Jam were flying high as the ultimate torch-bearers of grunge rock. The band’s first three albums–Ten, Vs., and Vitalogy–were hugely successful breakthrough records, featuring hit singles as well as classic deep cuts that would come to define the band, cementing them as one of the best musical acts that America had to offer. With the release of their fourth album–No Code–in August of 1996, the band was still riding their wave of success, even amongst constant fighting between the band members.

On September 20th, 1996, Pearl Jam stopped by the Late Show with David Letterman in support of No Code. They performed “Hail, Hail”, the rocking lead single from the album, and delivered a truly memorable performance. The band was ferocious, with Eddie Vedder showcasing his immeasurable talent as a singer and frontman, while new drummer Jack Irons pounded away on the drums. Guitarists Mike McCready and Stone Gossard played off each other perfectly, creating one of the best dual-guitar sounds in all of rock. The band was at the top of their game on the Letterman show, still possessing the explosive live energy that made them so popular in the first place, and that continues to attract hordes of fans to their shows to this day.

Thankfully, Pearl Jam shared a video of the band’s performance of “Hail, Hail” on the Late Show, which you can watch below. Enjoy Pearl Jam in their prime!

Pearl Jam – “Hail Hail” – 9/20/96 – The Late Show with David Letterman

[Originally published 9/20/17]