We are REM and this is what we do when you're not looking

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July 04

We are REM and this is what we do when you're not looking

That was how Michael Stipe introduced the third of a five night run of unique rehearsal concerts in Dublin's Olympia Theatre. In their own words, this experiment in "terror and music" gave loyal fans a glimpse at the songs destined for the next R.E.M. album, yet not fully polished. For the most part, the fans cooperated and were appropriately silent, then rapturous throughout the gig.

As promised, the bulk of the evening was devoted to show-casing new songs. We were treated to 11 in all. The sound is predominantly guitar heavy (Peter's mandolin on one track notwithstanding) and certainly louder and more direct than any of their last three albums. A couple of songs would fit neatly between the sounds of Monster and New Adventures in Hi-Fi, while others are tightly-crafted, melodic indie rockers.

With Michael singing lyrics directly from his laptop - amid frustrating Macro pop-up warnings - the band sounded invigorated and despite claiming nerves, played the new songs impeccably. As proof that the songs are not the finished article, Michael scribbled notes and adjustments over his lyric sheets mid-song.

REM were clearly having fun and this was most apparent during their show-boating of 8 songs from their back catalogue. This was far from a greatest hits package, but instead treated us to rarities from the Reckoning and Fables of the Reconstruction albums. Gems such as Driver 8 and Little America gave the band an opportunity to rock-out and re-live their youth. One of the highlights of the night was the classic 'So. Central Rain', unbelievably sounding better than ever and delivered with bundles of energy and enthusiasm.

Presumably, bootlegs of these work-in-progress songs will circulate the Net imminently, but this should only bolster anticipation for the forthcoming album...indications are looking up.

1:37 PM | Blog it | Music

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