I feel like there was a very specific period of time in which R.E.M. were like “we’re tired of this underground band/best kept secret shit. We want to make anthems.” “Finest Worksong”, the track that leads off their pop breakthrough Document, is evidence that the four guys from anthem can, would and did write anthems.… Read More “Finest Worksong” by R.E.M. (1987)
Does Mike Mills get his deserved levels of props? I mean, Michael Stipe is Michael Stipe. Peter Buck has always given great interview, and his solo work has gotten acclaim over the years. Bill Berry has always been the quiet one, and is also the hunk of the group (OK, that might just be my… Read More “Fall On Me” by R.E.M. (1986)
“Everybody Hurts” is earnest in a way that’s not usually associated with REM. Even their most direct songs can be described as slightly oblique. No obscured sentiment when it comes to “Everybody Hurts”. REM’s bassist Mike Mills once stated that the song was written to appeal to young people. It was meant to be anthemic.… Read More “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M. (1992)
From my brief initial period of MTV ownership (fall ‘94-summer ‘96?), here’s the second single from R.E.M.’s Monster. It’s unusually seductive (for them), with a brooding lead vocal by Michael Stipe and a bass/drum rumble from Mike Mills and Bill Berry. Stipe’s sister Lynda provides the female background vocals. Monster’s kind of a divisive album,… Read More “Bang And Blame” by R.E.M. (1994)
Five Star Jamz 