Topic summary
In Utero

- "Heart-Shaped Box"
Released: August 30, 1993 - "All Apologies" / "Rape Me"
Released: December 6, 1993 - "Pennyroyal Tea"
Released: April 19, 2014 (20th anniversary re-release)
In Utero is the third and final studio album by the American rock band Nirvana, released on September 21, 1993, by DGC Records. After breaking into the mainstream with their previous album, Nevermind (1991), Nirvana hired Steve Albini to record In Utero, seeking a more complex, abrasive sound that was reminiscent of their work prior to Nevermind. Although the songwriter, Kurt Cobain, said it was "very impersonal", many songs allude to his personal life, expressing feelings of angst that were prevalent on Nevermind.
In Utero was recorded in February 1993 at Pachyderm Studios. After recording finished, rumors circulated that DGC might not release it due to Albini's abrasive and uncommercial sound. It was mastered by Bob Ludwig to achieve a more desirable sound for Nirvana and DGC. Nirvana hired the producer Scott Litt to remix the singles "All Apologies", "Heart-Shaped Box" and "Pennyroyal Tea".
In Utero was a major critical and commercial success and is frequently cited as one of the greatest albums of all time. Critics praised its lyrics and raw, unconventional sound. It reached number one on the US Billboard 200 and UK Albums Chart; "Heart-Shaped Box" and "All Apologies" reached number one on the BillboardModern Rock Tracks chart. The album is certified 6× platinum in the US for 6 million sales and has sold 15 million copies worldwide. It is the final studio album to be released before Cobain's death.