GUNS N' ROSES' 'The Spaghetti Incident?' album turns 30, released on November 23rd 1993

Published November 23 2023 at 15:48

'The Spaghetti Incident?' was the 5th studio album by American hard rock band GUNS N' ROSES, released on November 23rd 1993.

The album is composed of covers of older punk rock, hard rock, and other songs. 'The Spaghetti Incident' was the only studio album to feature rhythm guitarist Gilby Clarke, who replaced original Guns N' Roses member Izzy Stradlin (with some of Stradlin's parts featured on the album) during the band's "Use Your Illusion" tour in 1991, as well as the last album to feature guitarist Slash, bassist Duff McKagan, and drummer Matt Sorum, following their departures in 1996 and 1997, respectively.

'The Spaghetti Incident?' stands as a distinctive chapter in the band's discography. It deviates somewhat from the original material that characterized their previous records, opting instead for a collection of cover songs that pay homage to the band's diverse musical influences.

The title references an incident Steven Adler had in 1989 while the band was temporarily staying at an apartment in Chicago. Adler stored his drugs in a refrigerator next to the band's take-out containers, which contained Italian food. Duff McKagan explained that Adler's code word for his stash was 'spaghetti'. In Adler's eventual lawsuit against the band, his lawyer asked the band to "tell us about the spaghetti incident," which the bandmembers found highly amusing and thus used as the title of the album.

The album features an eclectic mix of punk, glam, and hard rock tracks, showcasing the band's versatility and drawing attention to their roots. From the punk energy of The Damned's "New Rose" to the raw intensity of Charles Manson's "Look at Your Game, Girl," the covers reflect the band's rebellious spirit and eclectic taste. Despite being initially conceived as a stopgap between original studio albums, 'The Spaghetti Incident?' remains a captivating exploration of Guns N' Roses' musical heritage, offering fans a glimpse into the band's influences and an unexpected twist in their sonic journey.

Album tracklisting:

Since I Don't Have You    
New Rose    
Down On The Farm    
Human Being    
Raw Power    
Ain't It Fun    
Buick Mackane (Big Dumb Sex)    
Hair Of The Dog
Attitude    
Black Leather    
You Can't Put Your Arms Around A Memory    
I Don't Care About You    
Look At Your Game, Girl