What's the Frequency Kenneth?- R.E.M

We now enter the realm of band R.E.M, lead by Michael Stipe (centre in photo). R.E.M has a unique sound and a knack for coming up with some clever and kooky names for albums and songs. The top three albums are the following:

1. Automatic for the People: a great album with a variety of songs that express the fabulous musical styling of the band. Highlights include: "The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite", once you've finished listening the spelling error in the title will be the last thing on your mind. The lyrics are fun in a way that you will never figure out their meaning, so just go with it! "Man on the Moon" is another great song. The chorus shows off the great vocals and harmonies that R.E.M commonly use in their music. The lyrics share a little bit of history and some old-fashioned stuff that add to the overall feel. "Everybody Hurts" has been covered by many artists, but this is the original. The guitar sounds are great
2. Monster: a fantastic album that has a rock feel with some awesome songs. "What's the Frequency Kenneth" is one of my favourite R.E.M songs. The backing guitar is amazing and listening is just a fun experience. Air guitar? Guaranteed! The lyrics are a little whack, but that just makes it even cooler. "Crush with Eyeliner" is also great. Michael often appears live with Bowie-like eye make-up, just because he's Michael Stipe. I'm also a fan of "Star 69" another song that really adds to the album mood. Monster is classic R.E.M alternative sound.

3. New Adventures in Hi-Fi: this album was recorded while the band was on tour, but it still manages to deliver some great songs. "The Wake Up Bomb" is another song that has some lyrics that make you question the sanity of the author. But then you hear the catchy beat and great sounds and just sing along. "New Test Leper" is a song that asks some questions about religion. This is a common topic (politics and religious views) for the band's songs. Another is Around the Sun's "I Wanted to Be Wrong". "Electrolite" is a song that you can easily get into. The backing piano is sweet and gives the song a light feel. Celebrity names like Martin Sheen get a mention in this song too.

These are some great albums. Live albums are also a highlight. One song that misses out in these is "(Don't Go Back To) Rockville" written by Mike (right in photo). Amazing harmony. Mike sings the song live in the album R.E.M Live, singing just his harmony part. The original version can be found on The Best of R.E.M. Excellent. Enjoy you R.E.M journey and tell me what you think, If you are already converted, let me know what completes your journey, or your fave albums.
Dannielle