470 - R.E.M. - Document

I thought I had listened to this album before. Shoot, I've owned all of the other R.E.M. titles on IRS Records. Alas, my first listen to this album on Monday was probably my first listen to the album at all. While it is much of what I expect from later IRS-era R.E.M., what I found most interesting are the rockers. I was very put off by Monster's sound and thought their attempt at that loud of a rock sound was a desperate backpedal from the sounds of Green and Out of Time. After hearing "Strange" and "Lightnin' Hopkins," Monster doesn't seem quite as big of a stretch as I previously felt. Although, at the same time, these are my least favorite tracks on the album.

There is something about R.E.M.'s country drawl to their form of college rock. It is a blend that I struggle to articulate and many bands since the 80's have tried to replicate.

Songs I knew I liked: "Finest Worksong," "It's the End of the World as We Know It (and I Feel Fine)," and "The One I Love"

Songs I didn't know but now like: "Welcome to the Occupation," "Fireplace," and "King of Birds"

Songs I can go the rest of my life without hearing again: "Strange" and "Lightnin' Hopkins"