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Up [VINYL]

by: REM

Release Date October 26, 1998
A more ironic album title it would be hard to imagine. 'Up' captures REM at a low ebb, reeling from the sudden departure of drummer Bill Berry after 17 years' service. A documentary made at the time shows the three remaining members tense and tetchy, admitting to "communication issues" with one another.

This fraught atmosphere spills over into the music. Edginess and paranoia prevail in this rootless, post-'OK Computer' world. Rarely have Michael Stipe's vocals sounded so dispirited and enervating. It all comes as a big shock after the bright, primary colours rock of 'New Adventures In Hi-Fi.'

This being REM though they still manage to mine some magic from the mess. Sonically, it's their most experimental record. The ... Read More: