Meaning: The quote you provided is from Adam Jones, the guitarist of the band Tool, and it addresses the concept of "grunge" music and its association with Seattle. Grunge is a genre of rock music that emerged in the late 1980s and gained mainstream popularity in the early 1990s. It is characterized by its raw and distorted sound, angst-filled lyrics, and often unkempt appearance of its musicians. The genre is closely associated with the city of Seattle, Washington, and is often considered a defining element of the city's musical identity.

In the quote, Adam Jones is expressing his opinion on what constitutes "true grunge" from the perspective of a musician who was part of the alternative rock scene during the genre's peak. By stating that there are only three bands from Seattle that he would consider true grunge, he is likely referring to the influential bands that were at the forefront of the grunge movement and played a significant role in shaping its sound and image.

The three bands that are commonly regarded as the pioneers of grunge and are closely associated with Seattle are Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden. These bands were instrumental in popularizing the grunge sound and ethos, and their music had a profound impact on the music industry and popular culture at the time. Each of these bands contributed to the evolution of the grunge genre and left a lasting legacy that continues to influence rock music to this day.

Nirvana, fronted by the iconic Kurt Cobain, is often credited with bringing grunge music to the mainstream with their breakthrough album "Nevermind" in 1991. The band's raw and emotionally charged sound, combined with Cobain's introspective lyrics, captured the disillusionment and angst of a generation, making them the poster children of the grunge movement.

Pearl Jam, led by vocalist Eddie Vedder, also played a crucial role in shaping the grunge genre. Their debut album "Ten" showcased their blend of hard rock and introspective ballads, earning them a dedicated fan base and cementing their status as one of the leading bands of the era.

Soundgarden, with their heavy riffs and powerful vocals from Chris Cornell, added a unique and darker edge to the grunge sound. Their albums "Badmotorfinger" and "Superunknown" solidified their place in the grunge pantheon and showcased their musical versatility and innovation.

These three bands, along with others from the Seattle scene, collectively defined the grunge movement and left an indelible mark on the music world. Their influence extended beyond the confines of the genre, impacting fashion, art, and popular culture at large. The raw, unpolished quality of their music and their rejection of mainstream conventions resonated with a generation disillusioned by the excesses of the 1980s, making grunge a powerful and enduring cultural force.

In conclusion, Adam Jones' quote reflects the significance of the three seminal bands from Seattle in shaping the grunge genre and influencing the broader musical landscape. Their impact continues to be felt, and their music remains a touchstone for fans and aspiring musicians alike. Through their raw and emotionally charged sound, they captured the spirit of an era and left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.