Murmur

Didn't love or hate. Definitely not their best stuff

I'll start by stating I'm not the biggest R.E.M fan. Turns out I especially am not a huge fan of earlier R.E.M. I don't think Michael Stipe's voice and 80s new wave go together very well. There are times during the album where you can hear where their style of more later 80s/early 90s R.E.M peaks through, but at the same time most of it is pretty forgettable. By far my favorite song on the album is Catapult because again, it sounds like something they would have on their later albums than this weird early 80s new wave album. I understand all bands have to start somewhere, but I'm glad they kept making music because I think R.E.M would not be remembered if they just released Murmur.

This is a good album. Radio Free Europe and Sitting Still are my favorite songs. Michael Stipe sometimes uses his ability to sing catchy nonsense, which somehow resonates with us.

Admittedly I’ve never really been an R.E.M. fan but I don’t really find much to latch onto. It’s not bad but I’m unlikely to be listening again anytime soon.

Classic, but probably only the 3rd or 4th best REM album...

Ставаше, минимум като радио музика

It's intriguing to listen to from a 'what did guitar music sound like *before* this?' point of view, but I'd wager the people who rate this R.E.M's best album are looking at it only from that point of view. The songs are fine but largely unmemorable, so I have to assume it's the album's (impressively fully-formed and cohesive) sound that got people salivating when it came out. 2.5 / 3

A pretty remarkable debut album, and one that I think merges classic rock music formula with the more artistic aspects via Michael Stipes lyricism. The guitars are bright and sparkly, and the baselines are groovy and intricate. There's very little to dislike about this era defining project, and it certainly laid the foundations for the wonderful career that REM went in to have. Highlights: Radio Free Europe Moral Kiosk Catapult

I have not heard many R.E.M. songs before this, and it turns out I like them more than I thought I would. 4/5

Meh

Murmur was yet another album that doesn't do anything insanely amazing but for what it is, its really solid. The album was a bit slow at the beginning but picked up by track 3. The tracks during that period of time were not exactly anything extraordinary but they were still solid fun tracks that i did enjoy. The vocals were not super special either but fit the music pretty well. This is a solid album but i genuinely don't really know what else to say about it other than just calling it a good album. Best Song: We Walk Worst Song: Radio Free Europe

I love Stipe’s obscure lyrics. It’s often like listening to a lovers painting by Picasso.

What a debut from one of the GOATs.

Early R.E.M. slapped. Imagine being in college and this is the hottest thing on the college radio station. Would be sick

I really don't get the hype around R.E.M. Their music is completely inoffensive, but there's nothing remotely interesting about it.

College radio Welcomed contemplative rock Practiced nonchalance

Only decent and nothing more.

Great album, I used to listen to it a lot in the late eighties and early nineties. Radio Free Europe was the first REM song I heard and I loved the sound. I like the fairly basic (in a good way) rocky sound whilst it is also melodic and Michael Stipe's voice contributes a lot to the quality of the songs. Crisp guitars and a very functional rhythm session complete the picture. Maybe not their very best album but excellent still! And it has aged well.

None of these songs click on loudly enough to make them memorable. Weird. 2 stars

Classic

Not R.E.M.'s strongest album, but still a good one. They've definitely found their sound here, and the energy is there.

I liked it enough, I never really listened to R.E.M. at length before there were a couple songs that I felt just flowed into each other that could be good or bad but I just thought it was okay. Overall I was happy to have the experience with more R.E.M. songs

Good album, sounds unique for other albums I've heard from that time period

I still don't like REM.

Midwest emo before Midwest emo

Couldn't get into this one. They don't sound that confident here which makes sense since this was their debut. It just sort of sits there with very little energy. It gets better for them later on in their career but this one doesn't need to be in the book.

Het is 1983, maar het klinkt al meteen als REM. Altijd knap als je je eigen geluid kunt uitvinden, daar niet van, maar niets op deze plaat springt verder boven het gemiddelde uit. 'Altijd kwaliteit gaat ook vervelen', zullen we maar zeggen.

Wat een onzin om nu weer een R.E.M. album tegen te komen. Moet ik mijzelf weer gaan herhalen. Dit album lijkt nog iets minder de R.E.M. handtekening te dragen, maar is net zo vergeetbaar als de rest.

Debuutalbums, fan van! Ik heb al eerder uitgelegd welke albums ze van REM hadden moeten selecteren, dus dat ga ik niet nog een keer overdoen. We horen al wel iets van het specifieke REM geluid doorsijpelen op dit album, maar het moet zich duidelijk nog meer ontwikkelen. Wat wel knap is, is dat het totaal niet klinkt als een plaat uit 1983. Geen synthesizers, drumcomputers en andere overdadig bombastische poespas. Ook geen zeurende zanger. Gewoon prima muziek. Het zijn alleen wel een beetje niemendalletjes, dus ik blijf ook na een tweede keer luisteren ergens hangen tussen een 3 en een 4. En omdat ik weet hoeveel beter REM kan zijn, neig ik naar een vergeetbare 3. Want er blijft simpelweg weinig van hangen. Aan de andere kant hoor ik dit veel liever dan 90% vd albums uit deze lijst. Ik ga het raten naar stijl: op de schaal van REM is dit niet hun beste materiaal. Dus toch die 3.

Kaunis! Perfect Circle päätyy soittolistalle, ehkä joku muukin biisi. Pakko tosin todeta että nää biisit on aika samanlaisia, tai sitten mä en tunne bändiä tarpeeksi voidakseni kuulla nyansseja paremmin. Joka tapauksessa mukavaa taustamusiikkia piirtämiseen, 4/5.

REM - a band I never think of listening to but a band I always enjoy a lot. Finishing every album really focussed on listening to them more often……..I never will, but I’ll certainly think about it for a short while. 3.8

Uno de los primeros álbumes que dio a luz a lo indie?? Estaba bien pero nada particularmente interesante 🤔

2 R.E.M. albums in a week! I wasn't familiar with any of the songs on this one. It was good overall, but it didn't blow me away. A strong debut, though.

well there sure are better REM albums (i havent hear a full one), this one isnt bad but also isnt much.

It's ok

It's allright

5/10…College Rock / alternative Rock

do you remember me im that face you always see

The build up to their run of perfect albums

The fact that this is their debut album is mind blowing. I love this album.

good but weird

I hadn't listened to this album, no do I recall hearing any songs off of it save for Radio Free Europe. Pretty good overall. It's interesting to me to listen to this album as I think their distinctive sound was evolving strongly at this point.

Pls i beg you, stop giving me R.E.M. albums

Very nice

I really like his vocals and the bass sounds but I wouldn't listen to this album in my free time. Or maybe I would, I'm 50/50 on if I like it or if I don't.

i don't like the first album because the lyrics doesn't really sound good to me I would say though the instruments do sound good but the rest isn't good

I like the beat, and I think that it could mean like how so many songs have so much unwanted/useless noise/ that has no meaning, and are false and annoying, which is probably why there is only one beat and repetitive words throughout the song

I Like it because it is nice and upbeat. I like his voice, good sound.

1st song- I didn't like it because it doesn't make sense at all. 2nd song- its ok but I like it because it sound so good

I like the upbeatness in the songs, even though it's simple. LOVE the guitar in the background. I would put this on on a long road trip.

I don't like most of the instrumentals the lyrics are ok. i give this album a 4/10

So my first thought was - WTF? THIS is the REM album on this list? Why on earth would you do this instead of Automatic for the People or even Monster? But then I realized - this is their debut album, and the high quality and high impact of these songs at such an early stage of their career really is something worthy to behold. Is it a must listen for everybody? No way. But is it a must listen for REM fans? Oh heck yeah!!

Ok, so this is a weird. First listen I was like meh, it all sounds a bit samey. But something drew me back to listen again several times and the subtleties became more apparent. It’s gone to a 4 and with time could go higher. Isn’t it funny how some albums do that. Or is it just me?

I forgot about this while I was listening to it.

**Album Review: "Murmur" by R.E.M.** Released in 1983, R.E.M.'s debut album *Murmur* was a defining moment for the emerging alternative rock scene in the early '80s. The album is characterized by its mysterious sound, intricate lyrics, and unconventional production techniques, establishing R.E.M. as a band with a distinctive voice that would influence countless artists in the decades to come. ### Music Musically, *Murmur* is an album that defies easy categorization. It draws from a wide palette of rock subgenres, including jangle pop, post-punk, and folk-rock. The most recognizable element of the album is Peter Buck’s jangly, Rickenbacker guitar riffs, which channel the sounds of '60s bands like The Byrds while still feeling modern and fresh. Tracks such as “Radio Free Europe” and “Talk About the Passion” exemplify this jangly sound, with intricate, arpeggiated guitar lines that interweave with the rhythm section. Mike Mills’ melodic bass playing serves as a crucial counterpart to Buck's guitar, often providing a counter-melody that adds depth to the songs. His playing is both dynamic and supportive, never overpowering, but always present in the mix, which gives the album a rich, full sound. Drummer Bill Berry offers solid, understated percussion that complements the melodies, avoiding flashy fills or overpowering beats. Instead, he maintains a driving rhythm that carries each song forward, creating a consistent and cohesive sound across the album. The arrangements on *Murmur* are deceptively simple. R.E.M. often relies on standard verse-chorus structures, but they inject a level of complexity with unexpected chord progressions, layered instrumentation, and nuanced dynamics. The result is a sound that is simultaneously accessible and enigmatic. Songs like “Sitting Still” and “Catapult” demonstrate this approach, blending catchy hooks with unconventional structures that invite repeated listens. ### Lyrics Michael Stipe’s lyrics on *Murmur* are cryptic and impressionistic, often more concerned with creating mood and atmosphere than with telling straightforward narratives. The words are frequently buried in the mix, with Stipe’s soft, mumbled delivery making them even harder to decipher. This approach gives the songs a haunting, dreamlike quality that invites listeners to project their interpretations onto the lyrics. The lyrics of “Radio Free Europe” are a prime example of this style, filled with disjointed imagery and phrases that suggest rebellion and dislocation but resist easy interpretation. Similarly, “Perfect Circle” presents a collage of phrases that evoke a sense of nostalgia and loss without ever stating anything directly. Stipe's words are less about meaning and more about emotion, using language as another instrument in the band's sound. There are recurring themes of escape, dislocation, and yearning throughout the album. "Pilgrimage" seems to reflect a spiritual or existential journey, while "Shaking Through" captures a sense of fragility and change. The lyrics often paint portraits of youth, confusion, and a longing for meaning in a world that feels elusive and fragmented. ### Production The production of *Murmur*, handled by Mitch Easter and Don Dixon, is both distinctive and influential. It has a murky, almost organic sound that contrasts sharply with the more polished production styles of the early 1980s. The mix often places Stipe’s vocals low, blending them with the instruments rather than putting them front and center. This decision emphasizes the band’s ensemble nature and forces listeners to focus on the music as a whole, rather than any individual part. The production makes heavy use of reverb and echo, giving the album a spacious, almost ethereal quality. This is evident in tracks like “Perfect Circle,” where the echoing piano and layered vocals create a sense of depth and expansiveness. The use of natural room reverb, particularly on the drums, contributes to the album’s distinctive sound, making it feel both intimate and expansive at the same time. Easter and Dixon also employed unconventional recording techniques to achieve the album’s unique sonic texture. For example, they used everyday objects like cardboard boxes to create percussion effects, adding an additional layer of originality to the sound. This experimentation aligns with the band’s ethos of creating something new and different from the mainstream rock music of the time. ### Themes *Murmur* is thematically rich, even if its meanings are not immediately apparent. Much of the album is concerned with themes of communication and misunderstanding. The title itself suggests a soft, indistinct sound — a whisper rather than a shout. This is reflected in the way the lyrics are delivered and the way the songs are constructed. There is a sense of searching, of trying to find meaning in a world that is confusing and chaotic. Songs like “Radio Free Europe” and “Talk About the Passion” explore the tension between expression and incomprehension, between speaking and being understood. "Radio Free Europe" can be seen as a metaphor for broadcasting messages into a void, while "Talk About the Passion" seems to critique the way discussions about important issues can become hollow and disconnected from reality. Other songs, like “Moral Kiosk” and “Catapult,” seem to critique societal norms and expectations, presenting a sense of alienation from established structures. Meanwhile, tracks like “We Walk” and “West of the Fields” hint at journeys both literal and metaphorical, with imagery that evokes travel, pilgrimage, and the quest for something beyond the immediate. ### Influence *Murmur* was highly influential, serving as a blueprint for countless alternative and indie rock bands that emerged in the 1980s and beyond. Its jangle-pop sound, characterized by Buck's guitar work and the band's overall melodic sensibility, would be adopted and expanded upon by groups like The Smiths, The Replacements, and later, bands like The Gin Blossoms and Teenage Fanclub. The album’s unconventional production style also set it apart from the polished, synth-heavy pop that dominated the charts at the time. The lo-fi, atmospheric sound of *Murmur* was embraced by a new generation of musicians looking to break free from the constraints of the mainstream music industry. This approach laid the groundwork for the DIY ethic and aesthetic that would become a hallmark of alternative rock in the '80s and '90s. R.E.M.'s blending of folk-rock elements with a modern, alternative sensibility helped bridge the gap between classic rock and the emerging indie scene. The band's sound on *Murmur* was also a precursor to the college rock movement, influencing bands like The Pixies, Sonic Youth, and even Nirvana, who would cite R.E.M. as a significant influence. ### Pros 1. **Innovative Sound**: *Murmur* is musically inventive, combining elements of jangle pop, folk rock, and post-punk in a way that was unique for its time. The album's sound is fresh and distinctive, thanks to Peter Buck's signature guitar style, Mike Mills' melodic bass lines, and Bill Berry's solid percussion. 2. **Atmospheric Production**: The production by Mitch Easter and Don Dixon is one of the album's standout qualities. The use of reverb, echo, and unconventional recording techniques creates a soundscape that is both intimate and expansive, contributing to the album's overall mood and mystique. 3. **Poetic, Ambiguous Lyrics**: Michael Stipe's cryptic, impressionistic lyrics are a key strength of the album, inviting listeners to engage with the music on a deeper, more personal level. The ambiguity of the lyrics creates a sense of mystery and depth that encourages repeated listening. 4. **Cohesive Themes**: The album's themes of dislocation, searching, and communication are consistently explored across its tracks, providing a unifying thread that ties the songs together. 5. **Influence on Alternative Rock**: *Murmur* was a groundbreaking album that helped define the sound of alternative rock, influencing countless bands that came after it. Its importance to the development of the genre cannot be overstated. ### Cons 1. **Obscure Lyrics**: While the ambiguity of Stipe’s lyrics can be seen as a strength, it can also be a drawback. Some listeners may find the lack of clarity frustrating or alienating, as the meaning of many songs remains elusive. 2. **Low Vocal Mix**: The decision to bury the vocals in the mix can make it difficult to discern the lyrics, which may be a point of contention for those who prefer more direct, intelligible songwriting. 3. **Uniform Sound**: While the album's cohesive sound is often praised, some critics have argued that the songs can blend together, making it difficult for individual tracks to stand out. The consistency of the production can give the album a somewhat monotonous feel at times. 4. **Limited Mainstream Appeal**: The unconventional production, cryptic lyrics, and relatively low-fi sound might limit the album's appeal to a broader audience accustomed to more polished, accessible music. 5. **Repetitive Elements**: Some elements of the album's sound, such as the jangly guitar and driving rhythms, are used repeatedly across the tracks. This can create a sense of repetitiveness for some listeners who may crave more diversity in the arrangements or instrumentation. ### Conclusion *Murmur* remains one of the most important debut albums in rock history, not just for what it achieved musically but for the way it laid the groundwork for the future of alternative rock. Its innovative combination of jangly guitar, cryptic lyrics, and atmospheric production created a distinct sound that set R.E.M. apart from their contemporaries and positioned them as pioneers of the genre. While it may have its limitations, the album's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, cementing its status as a classic and a must-listen for any serious fan of rock music.

Excited to see R.E.M. show up today for the album of the day. They are as college jam as college jam gets, especially considering this was there first studio album. This was the first time listening to one of their albums. I liked songs like "Moral Kiosk"

3/5

This was... fine. It was inoffensive but also instantly forgettable, and it was difficult for me to distinguish the songs. I'm not sure I "get" R.E.M.

After hearing this and falling in love with it, I feel like I need to defend myself. It was ‘83 so I was deep into my pop music phase with all that was on the charts and MTV, and somehow I just missed this album and didn’t really get into R.E.M. until several albums later and I never went back to their earlier stuff. THAT was a mistake as I clearly missed out! So much just comes together to create this moody, atmospheric vibe that’s primarily built on the highlight of the album, the jangly acoustic guitars. That and the songwriting. I admit to the possibility of a bad case of recency bias but this might be my favorite R.E.M. album of all and that’s saying something considering their future gems.

I like REM but hadn't heard such early stuff before. I wasn't disappointed! All the things I enjoyed about them at the end of the 80s were already in place here; in fact they seem to me to have a very mature sound already. Thanks to this project, I thought I could hear some of the New York alternative influences, and also hear how they, in turn, influenced bands like Nirvana, so thank you Wiki for backing me up on those things. I think I just like the overall blend that makes up REM's sound. Thoughtful without being annoyingly so; melodic and jangly but not twee; enough edge, rockiness and misery to keep things cool.

No me ha gustado mucho, me ha parecido como decadente

La mejor canción ha sido la balada de perfect circle. La forma de cantar de michael stipe no me llega como otros grupos.

I just wasn't in the mood for REM today. I have a couple of their most popular albums and enjoyed listening to those back in the day but I'm not really impressed with this album. Maybe a 1 for me, nothing really memorable at all in my first listen.

Not a fan of R.E.M. at their best. The only thing that saves this album from being a 1 star for me is Peter Buck's guitar work. He does some pretty interesting stuff with material that would otherwise be completely bland. 2 stars, just for Peter Buck, otherwise it would 1 star.

No one can understand just how awesome this album was when it came it. With all the other 80’s popular music, the country, the hair bands, REM was a breath of fresh air and this album was and still is a gem. it just doesn’t have the same affect on people that it did back then. Everyone is doing that type of thing now. They were the face of college rock and we were lucky to live when this album debuted.

Just didn't love it. Nothing stuck out.

yeah pretty good in a way its easy to the ears but forgettable cause i cant recall a single song ive listened to yesterday

Beautiful work of art. Is it soft post punk? I really like it from start to finish.

Kinda sounds like the normal Radiohead albums

Kinda boring. Same pace, no standout songs, bleh. 2/5

A lot of songs sound very similar. After a while the singing can get annoying.

A very enjoyable rem album as always.

I've only heard R.E.M.'s hits, and I never really felt a strong pull to their music, so this was my first time listening to a full album. I'm a bit conflicted about it. It's not a bad album at all, but I still don't really feel that strongly about them. It was kind of fascinating to listen to from a music history perspective though. There are songs on here that are very of their time, like Pilgrimage and 9-9, which are firmly in post-punk style of early U2. The jangly guitars also give it a 60s-pop feel a la The Byrds (Laughing). But in other ways this album feels very ahead of its time. I would have easily believed that Talk About the Passion, Catapult, or Sitting Still came out in the early 90s. It's very obvious where 90s alternative bands like Gin Blossoms, Goo Goo Dolls, and even Nirvana got their sound from. This R.E.M. album feels like it's somewhere between The Smiths and U2, but there's something innovative about the use of jangly guitars and the song compositions that feels different. I think it's easy to gloss over 40 years later, but I'm sure at the time this sounded pretty unique. I will say, Michael Stipe's lyrics make no freaking sense to me, and it's often difficult to make out what he's singing anyway. The harmonies mostly sound good, though his voice can be a little whiny at times. As someone who's very much a lyrics person, I think that's a big part of what keeps me from connecting more with this band. I'll give it a 4/5 but it's probably closer to a 3.5. It's an interesting album to listen to, but I'm not sure I'd revisit it much aside from a few songs. Highlights: Laughing, Moral Kiosk, Catapult, Sitting Still, 9-9

I'm really almost sorry I listened tot his album. I've never been much on R.E.M. They've had a few songs that I liked, a few I've liked quite a bit, but in all it's really not been a big attraction to me. With my CD collection being just a frogs' hair under 3,000 I've had to limit my intake to what I really like. I've got 4 R.E.M. CDs but listen to them rarely. Then I heard Radio Free Europe and Pilgrimage - both for the first time and thought "Why have I not heard these before. Then I heard laughing and thought "Oh yeah. THAT'S why." Murmur, overall, is a good CD - and I say it that way because it honestly surprised me. There are several tunes I'll skip the next time I listen (and I will listen again - it's worth it). Too bad they're not around anymore.

why does the normal version has all them live versions too? nevermind, the album was okay but nothing near to great. nothing special to me at least.

A melting pot of country, alternative and melody. Some great early REM songs on here and I'm sure was considered a groundbreaking debut at the time.

What a great debut album. Unique, deep and holds up well over the years.

For a band that's widely considered to have birthed alternative rock in its most contemporary form, R.E.M. has never quite appealed to me in the traditional sense. This debut album especially is unabashedly sleepy, hypnotic, and lulling. I understand that's likely the appeal of an album like this, with Michael Stripe's performances coming off as almost dream-like - vocally and especially lyrically, but sometimes I'm left hoping for something a bit more sticky or vibrant. This mood works particularly well in a song like 'Perfect Circle', a song very predictive of the melancholic-sounding direction the genre would branch into many years later. I quite enjoy listening to this album merely as a way of pinpointing certain influences. Influential sounds, song structures, and patterns are rarely this in-your-face - it's to the point where I'm left fascinated but the rudimentary nature of these roots still leaves me wanting something more. This is one of those albums that I just don't get *yet*. It's not without its highlights though, 'We Walk', 'Shaking Through', and 'Radio Free Europe' I find very enjoyable.

Un poco rollo. Un 3, por ser REM.

Sounds just like R.E.M. Extra star for being the first album to sound just like R.E.M.

Pop for serious people. Or serious music for pop people? Which one am I? Am I both? Or neither? Who can say? I can say. I'm both. Two stars. REM beginning REM. Not really essential. Two interesting but ultimately forgettable stars.

8/10

Another solid R.E.M. album that I enjoy but am not as thrilled by as I expected to be.

I think this was ultimately fine? It's good but I don't think, at the end of the day, I'm much of an REM fan.

Probably my favorite REM album this far, owing to the fact that Stipe’s voice seems somewhat less whiney than on later recordings. That said, I still couldn’t stomach much of it. I just don’t see why anyone would want to listen to this tripe.

Classic band not their best songs

Really good album

A pleasant listen

I've never liked this album. After all this time it still feels like the album that the band made before they really understood what makes for good hooks and songs. It is definitely not on my list of albums that must be heard before death. I would include one of their other more polished albums than this one.

Albumi #27, 23.08.2024 R.E.M.:n debyyttialbumi vuodelta 1983

REM always good

Nothing stood out good or bad

Sounds like REM tbf. Simpsons: Yes

Started off enjoying it, liked the vibe generally but nothing stood out.

Was alright but nothing quite top notch.

This did nothing for me at all. Extremely forgettable which is in stark contrast to the REM album I had a couple of days ago.

Why does these men insist on making me hear them sing?

very forgettable. not really my favorite genre. 80's music is mostly blah

This was my obsession from 15 to 21. No way I can be objective.

Some cities have a distinctive sound, and Athens, Georgia is one of them. REM were one of the bands that defined that sound - solid bass, punchy drums, jangly guitars and laconic vocals with lyrics ranging from the esoteric to the surreal. Michael Stipe has said that he still doesn’t know what Pilgrimage is about and he wrote it. Highlight is Radio Free Europe which one of my Athens friends sent me on a mix tape of local music back in the day.

An excellent debut album, maybe not as strong as the few others to be released in the decade, but still great.

I do not like R.E.M. Stipe is too whiney, the guitars are too jangle-y. This album is not convincing me otherwise. Top tracks: "Radio Free Europe"

It is a good but not great album. But then how to rate an album that surely helped pave the way for The Pixies, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam? And likely pushed contemporaries like The Smiths or The Replacements to refine their sound. While these guys weren't influencing the mainstream US just yet, they had to have been eating up the airwaves and influencing a different rock sound in the UK and Canada. Growing up in Canada, everything about late 80's and 90's rock is this sound - some of my favorite artists in The Watchmen and The Tragically Hip and The Northern Pikes just scream REM motifs. In some ways Canadian rock still sounds a bit like this. I couldn't pick a single song title from this album out of a police line except for Radio Free Europe, but you know right away it's REM between Stipe's vocals and the rest of the band's distinctive guitar, bass, and piano. I'm not saying it's a 5 but I enjoyed listening to this and damn if it is not a monumental album that was so different from the rest of rock music at the time but so similar to what followed it (thanks to their influence). Some favorites were Radio Free Europe, Laughing, Moral Kiosk, Perfect Circle, Catapult, and Sitting Still.

Boat transistor on the combine Free washer on the sign Left on might go fly Wheat mango gone bye Yes, that makes as much sense as the lyrics on the album. Also, almost every song follows the exact same pattern - a jangly guitar line, driving bass line, straighforward drums, Michael Stipe singing nonsense, verse chorus verse chorus. It's also interesting and a little lame that you hear all elements of R.E.M. on this debut album. In other words, they don't evolve much (although their sound does get richer on Automatic for the People). I generally like their sound, but their albums are almost interchangeable to me. Favorite tracks: Radio Free Europe, Talk About the Passion, Moral Kiosk, West of the Fields.

4.5 Really. Love R.E.M. and its like they sprung fully formed with trademark arpeggios and lyrical melodies. Only loses a bit of steam on the second half songs before closing with a shout chorus of West of the Fields.

I really got into REM but later than Murmur. Monster was the first album I really loved then I went backwards from there. But this was still very enjoyable.

i just started my second listen-through, and overall im not super impressed. it's definitely a good album; i enjoy how it sounds and every song is well-made. i just don't feel like it's personally to my taste. it has that sort of muted, low-key vibe that i associate with 80s music, which isnt bad, though it all sounds very similar to my ear. none of the songs particularly stand out to me. i could see myself playing this album while driving or just vibing, but i don't think it'd be my first choice. it lacks some essential quality which would attract me

I like it! I'll admit to being pretty distracted on my walk but the vibes were good. I think We Walk is my favorite, just cuz I'm *pretty* sure it's in 6/4. How do you rate these things 3/5?

Liked this album. Not necessarily a new favorite, but I could see myself listening to it again. It grew on me the more I listened.

A lot more melancholy than i remember

4/5

Not bad! Similar to the stuff they do later, but more holistic. Very one style

Just a solid album. Lots of great tracks and nearly 0 misses.

Nope but I would see michael shannon's rem cover band play this one if given the chance

It's a solid first effort from R.E.M. "Radio Free Europe" was a fun opener. Here, R.E.M begun their journey. A few albums later, they improved their sound. But this album sounds like other albums from its time. 3 stars for "Murmur".

Surprisingly coherent for a debut album. Every song is good, and there are a few bangers as well (Moral Kiosk)

Massì.

No private Spotify session needed. Not my favorite REM album, those came later. Not my least favorite either, those come much later. I like it, listen to occasionally.

Enjoyable.

Not for me

Thoughts before listening: Early REM is my favorite era for the band (as it is for most non-casual fans), and Murmur is typically thought of as their best...at least from music journalists. Its also their debut. I am a big enough fan of the band to own all these early records and listen to them fairly regularly, but I forget what songs are on each album. REM has so many good songs from their early years that it doesn't really matter whats on this....I know I'm going to love it. Review: This album is very good, especially knowing that its the debut of such a massively important band, but it is not my favorite REM record. There are some great songs here: "Radio Free Europe", "Pilgrimage", "Talk About the Passion", "Catapult", "Moral Kiosk", etc all rank amongst the band's best, but I feel that that later releases like "Reckoning" and " Life's Rich Pageant" are more consistent. Still though, the influence of this album can't be understated. This essentially kickstarted the entire US college rock movement that over time morphed into alternative and indie rock. Essentially all music that I grew up loving in the 90s and 00s cite REM as a major influence. This is a 4-star album (only cause REM has other 5-star releases).

3.1

Good stuff. I enjoyed it, but isn't something I want to hear on the regular.

Sorta background rock. Unremarkable to me but not bad

got some bangers

Very sunny, liked it better than automatic for the people

Listened to the album in two parts, one 15 minute session and another finishing the album while drunk. Good listen under that context, like a nostalgic wavey vibe where you sit on the ocean all day. Phases in and out. Cool with that view of it. Couldn’t tell you anything I listened to, though. Not an accurate review. Standouts: Pilgrimage, Catapult, 9-9, We Walk, and West Of The Fields.

This stuff is nothing short of brilliant - I like most of REM (a lot) but I'm not sure they made a better album after this one. There are no fewer than 8 great songs on this collection.

This was probably seminal for indie music but now it is a very average REM album

Hard work getting through the whole album.

4 stars. Fav Trax: Radio Free Europe, Laughing, 9-9

Samesy

It's not the best R.EM., but even their average is still dope!

Jangly and catchy, but not exactly memorable

Vibey for a certain 80's sound but pretty dull

I get that R.E.M.'s debut made the list because it would have been unusual for its time, but 41 years later I don't hear anything particularly special about it. It's ok though. Something about We Walk caught my ear.

This was ok, but nothing great. I did like the radio hit "Radio Free Europe".

With R.E.M. being such a classic 90's band, you would almost forget they had a lengthy career before 'Automatic For The People' and 'Losing My Religion'.

Interessante keuze. Kende enkel Radio Free Europe. Op zich echt nog wel een tof album, ideaal om de "hidden gems" van R.E.M. te ontdekken. 3.6*

some of this sounds like it was recorded with a water bottle over the microphone but still good. the bass and rhythm section carry the whole thing. enjoy the glory days before REM discovered what a mandolin was

Very REM, not exactly my favourite style - but chill.

it is what it is

Overall kinda bland to me

Much mellower REM than I am used to, but still solid! Not memorable but still enjoyable.

I think this might be a context album. Everyone seems to agree that it’s an amazing first album from REM, the original Indie Rock band. To be honest I thought it was boring and Michael Stipe’s voice sounded very different! It was interesting to hear how they developed their sound.

Made sense while I was listening to it, but at the end I couldn't quite remember what I'd just listened to - bit like a dream

Yes!*

Rating: 8.5/10 Consistently great songwriting, jangly, fun riffs. Melodic basslines and tight drumming. Another great album from this band. Favorite songs: Radio Free Europe, Pilgrimage, Talk About Passion, Perfect Circle, Catapult, Sitting Still, 9-9, Shaking Through. Least favorite song: Moral Kiosk.

The first couple of songs are great, but the record becomes pretty homogeneous after about song 4. Don't get me wrong I enjoy the sound of it, but it could have been an EP

I just love R.E.M. I love the sound. Not a great album from a hit perspective. Just a great album to listen to.

I'm not a big REM fan but liked this album more than I thought I would. 3.5.

I liked Moral Kiosk but can't speak much about the rest.

The music on this album was unknown to me but is pretty good. No songs really stood out, though, other than the We Walk song.

REM istn't my favorite - never was and never will be....

The only remarkable thing about this record is the release date. In context, I’m sure it was a wildly revolutionary sound, but 41 years later it sounds like any other 90s alt record.

3.5

There’s a lot here that I like, but none of the songs stick out as overly memorable. I like their later, more expressive stuff better.

I've heard it before and wasn't that impressed, it's more on the jangly side of post-punk which is not my preferred style. I can say I do enjoy pretty much every song though, there's just nothing that really sticks out after the opener. Kind of want to give it another try in the future though, so I guess that says something.

Meh

Twaalf keer het R.E.M geluid maar dan zonder nummers die je echt bij blijven. Tenminste niet na één luisterbeurt. Ik vind het geen ramp. Ik heb vandaag al serieus huiswerk gemaakt en dit is ontspanning. Ze gaan nog wel een 5 krijgen, maar ik hou hem nog even op zak. Toch kan het goed zijn dat ik deze nog wel een keer vaker aan ga zetten. Niks mis mee.

I like how it builds - good Pinterest scrolling album 😸 faves are Radio Free Europe and 9-9

album gave me rapid eye movement Fave: radio free Europe and catapult 2.5/5

i can tell this is the first album… in a bad way. mid asf everything sounds the same. later REM is way better.

At the start I was like eh, but as it went along, it grew on me, and I liked it. Shaking through was one I liked a lot, as well as the songs that came after it. I ended up enjoying this album more than I thought I would. Might even listen to it again. 8/10

insanely strong DEBUT album??? there was a ridiculous amount of repetition and a lot of it blends together and sounds very similar, but overall a very cohesive and clean album that was moderately fun to listen to/it had great vibes/my dad would love this i think there were no BAD songs on the album but i fear it had a few tracks that were mid and boring (@ perfect circle) which were contrasted with a few really great and solid tracks (radio free europe, 9-9) 3/5 mayyybe a 2.5/5 if i'm feeling mean

One of the greatest and most influential albums of all time, and one of the greatest debut albums as well.

Consistent quality album. Without the bangers of their later work. 7/10

Got bored and didn’t finish.

Still a lot of fun after all these years. And the lyrics remain virtually indecipherable!

A clean alternative pop/rock album. Every song is listenable, with great guitars and vocal harmonies. Lyrics are absurd af. Too jangly. Okayish. Favorites: Talk about the passion, We walk.

Early R.E.M. with some interesting lyrics, but I found the rhythm guitar to be repetitive and unengaging. 2/5.

While I feel like there are few songs that really stand above the rest on this album, I like it. Great guitar sounds and rhythms. A terrific Saturday, sit outside in the sun and listen to music album. One song I will day I will singleness despite my previous comment is 'Radio Free Europe". Catchy, it is!

First time hearing these guys besides radio songs. Some good rock but nothing amazing

Top

Great, dreamy, alternative rock. A consistent album but nothing hits the high water mark of the first track.

Not too bad, but definitely not as good as the R.E.M. album that I got a couple of weeks ago. Overall, it is a nice album that is good as a background listen.

The funny bit is where I would give this anything other than a 5. Blessed to have known them forever.

hmmm tosi hyvä mutta sanoisin että ei vedä oikeen vertoja husker duulle... taitaa huskeri viedä tämän kilpailun.. ei tarvi hävetä kun loppujenlopuksi aikalailla maailman influentiaalisin bändi se huskeri niin ei tarvi allapäin olla...noh sen verran voi olla että yksi polvi maahan ja päätä alas... please save me huskeri... if you can hear me huskeri please save me.... älä välitä tähdistä... tähdet ei merkkaa mitään... huskerilla yksi tähti... koska se on ainoa yksi tähti... kuin jumala... ainoa jumala... muiden jumalien palvominen harhaoppia.... huskeri... huskeri... huskeri... ilmesty.... radio free euriope

Bluesy as hell.

averaging any emotional peak in both direction and still beeing worth listening is not average skill

Pocos debuts son tan buenos como el primer LP de los legendarios precursores del "Alt Rock", R.E.M. La hipnótica voz de Stipe te captura y transporta a través de paisajes del "under" norteamericano, sin necesidad de hacerte entender sus complejas letras, todo de la mano del precioso bajo de Mike Mills, las guitarras saltarinas de Peter Buck y la poderosa y rápida batería de Bill Berry. Una mezcla del power pop de Big Star con lo mejor de los sonidos del punk y postpunk británico. Sumamente recomendable.

It was a really cool sound. I honestly didn't get to listen to this too closely. I will have to come back it to. It would probably be a 3.5, but the fact that it came out in 1983 makes me want to round up to a 4. This is what all indie and alternative music sounded like in the later 80 and the 90s. And you can still hear it today.

This album was fine. Nothing really stood out to me. To their credit, R.E.M.'s sound style is very distinctive and it's clear how much it influenced music for the decade after they came on the scene.

Kicking things off with the debut album Murmur by R.E.M, I’ve always sort of known about them but have never listened to a full album until now. For starters this album does have a cozy, easygoing, and relaxed feeling to it. I enjoyed the instrumentation, and the vocals grew on me as the album progressed, and the lyrics serve their purpose, overall a decently good time! However, I don’t see myself coming back to this during any casual listening, it’s good but doesn’t wow me or excite me as much as it probably would’ve had I been there during their breakout years (as I understand they are very influential). The songs kind of bleed together near the end to me (tbf I’ve only listened to this twice now) so while enjoyable, it doesn’t leave me wanting to hear it again and again. That being said I’d be down to listen to more from the band to hear how they progressed throughout their career. Solid and enjoyable listen 👍🏻 My favorite song: Sitting Still

Very nice, good music, typical REM sound

I always considered R.E.M a very strong group, but I have concluded that they only have quite a few hits that are really good. The rest, like this album, and the one we had one the list before that, is quite boring. Nothing that stands out or excites really. Weak 3.

This album really just passed me by. I'm not a great fan of R.E.M in general but thought this album sounded ok. "Radio Free Europe" is even a good song and the only one that stuck out as special. The rest I tried listening to multiple times during the weekend. While good to have on in the background it didn't really leave any lasting impression. We have had 3 R.E.M albums now and I think this is worse than "Automatic For The People" but better than "Document".

I can see the potential, but being more familiar with their later work makes this sound so clunky when listening to it for the first time. Maybe it's a grower...

Very fun and catchy, love the jangle pop aspect, makes me think of Meat Puppets a bit

This feels like lower-tier REM for me. They've got the nice jangly guitars and rhythms, and the usual backing 'ooh' vocals. It's all perfectly nice, it just feels a bit bland and samey to me.

not my favorite REM, ok tho

Yes

This is what emo kids were listening to before emo and it is terrible. Go all the way and listen to The Smiths. This is not alternative, this is New Wave. I can't believe this dominated college radio in the 80s. I understand why a generation of kids turned to hip hop from rock n' roll.

Post trip album

"what even are the decades?"

Classic

Another one

song reco: radio free europe ⭐⭐⭐ overall, it was a good experience. it radiates sunday morning vibes. 🌞

En su primer larga duración R.E.M. sienta las bases de un sonido característico que con los años perfeccionará y lo hará inconfundible. La presencia de las guitarras en primer término y la característica voz de Michael Stipe, junto al lirismo de sus letras crean un estilo en el que se mezcla la tradición del folk-rock con el garage y el post-punk americano, pero que suena diferente a todo lo escuchado antes llevando su música a la cumbre del rock alternativo. Comienzan fuerte con el tema "Radio Free Europa", sobre el poder de los medios independientes para lograr cambios sociales, para después dar un giro introspectivo, impulsado por los medidos riffs de guitarra de "Pilgrimage" (Peregrinaje) y su viaje de autodescubrimiento y crecimiento personal. También destacaría la melancólica "Talk About the Passion", en la que reflexionan sobre la necesidad de poner pasión al enfrentarse a los problemas del mundo, y las sinuosas guitarras y pianos de "Perfect Circle" que nos hablan de navegar entre lo que la sociedad espera de nosotros y nuestra propia individualidad.

Just like I remember them.

surprisingly bland kinda throwaway music

I suppose I am not sure why this album makes it over Out of Time or Automatic for the People.

Besides the few popular REM songs I don’t think I’ve heard much else. Not bad.

Ya know.. I thought I was a fan of REM. But I guess I’m not.

Whiny

Perfectly average. Nothing remarkable to note at all really but that's not necessarily bad. Great for a debut album. I enjoyed listening throughout and would listen again in the background. 6/10 (3/5)

I'm just not an R.E.M. guy I guess. This sounds like a band's first album. There are definitely some interesting things going on but the songs are pretty boring and the vocals are so blah

Not used to alternative rock. Hard to grasp the words, but the album has a nice steady flow.

Excellent!

This album got me out of musical doldrums. Very good from first song to last.

I read the reviews here, and one of them describes this as "mainstream radio formula rock" and I just about broke down in tears. This came out in 1983, into a musical landscape laden with synths (Toto - Africa) and heavy production - Duran Duran, Michael Jackson etc. REM offered a stripped down and truly 'Indie' sound, jangly guitar, wandering and dancing bass, and earnest lyrics. It would be years before they could fill a stadium. This was them finding their feet and doing it their own way. Great debut - a few weak songs preventing a 5 but just about there.

9-9 has a great sound. The rest is forgettable.

An ok album

Great intro to REM. More raw than later albums, it gives context to what would follow.

It sounds well produced, specially the drums, but feels like mainstream radio formula rock. Not one for me.

A real banger.

It's interesting to learn that this album was wildly different than everything else on radios at the time. It definitely sounds like R.E.M., but doesn't sound like anything else I know of from the era.

I’m from this part of GA. So I’ve got a soft spot for this one. In REM’s total discography, I find this not as great as other albums. But it’s good stuff and a very solid debut.

i honestly had no idea that R.E.M. was such an old band. I thought they were such a 90's sound, but it turns out they had been on the circuit for a while. that being said... still not a huge fan of them. I did enjoy the song 'Standing Still', but mostly I wasn't a huge fan.

R.E.M. is becoming one of my top artists. Every track here is a Standout, with the title track in particular.

В целом ласкает ушки и на удивление не плохо состарился, однако вряд ли я когда-нибудь намеренно переслушал хоть один трэк из этого альбома

6/10 Прикольная, балдёжная темка. We Walk особенно зашла. Да и впринципе бодренько, можно с кайфом послушать в дороге например. Недостаток, разве что, в том, что все песни одинаковые какие-то, не очень хорошо запоминаются, мало изюминки в них. Ну а так, годно, в целом.

It's boring

Bueno.

I've never gone quite this far back in R.E.M.'s discography. I also wouldn't have guessed that this was R.E.M.'s debut album if I didn't read up on it before listening. While a little understated compared to their later work, it honestly still sounds pretty polished and familiar. The jangly guitars, clean drumming, and melodic basslines and choruses, it's all there. R.E.M. would obviously go on to reach great heights after this, but "Murmur" was very much an announcement to the alt rock world that R.E.M. was here and ready for an extended stay. The current avg rating of 3.41 accurately reflects my feelings on this I'd say.

I've never really liked the lead singer's voice of this group. Still don't. Just bland pop from another vastly overrated band.

Not heard this debut album from R.E.M. before. It feels like they are still trying to find their sound. Too many tracks followed the same formula which made the overall album a bit dull. Later albums are better

Never really got the deal with tgese guys and have now listened to talking heads a lot these feel like inferior copies. Its all jangles and moaning.

Enjoyed this all the more for not having any of the overplayed big hits. Dragged a bit by the end though, R.E.M. don't really do variation

I tried to listen but it kept moving away like trying to remember a dull dream and resolutely stayed in the background.

Hadn't ever listened to their debut album, better than I expected it to be, quite repetitive and samey throughout. 2.5

This was pretty cool. I honestly haven't listened to much R.E.M. outside of the hits so it was cool to see an early version of them and how they started out.

I LOVE THESE GUYS. Some songs were a little repetitive, but for a debut album its a banger. Love it

Bop K admittedly i was zoned out for a lot of it but it was just banger after banger Relistened to it driving home in the dark and ive never felt more like an irresponsible teen that will grow into a girl dad

I came to this retrospectively but it has all the hallmarks of a great debut. Sounding slightly different to most music at the time and promising so much. 4.5 stars.

Such a strong debut. So different, such a unique sound.

i see why this is important to people

Two REMs in one week, what is this? My sleep cycle? Just kidding, I sleep pretty good mostly. After listening, this might be my favorite of the REM albums. I say that both because I don't think I skipped any songs, but also I just really liked a lot of them. Many of the other albums went in one ear and out the other, but this one I had to pause at moments because some songs sounded so familiar. I kept a bunch from this one: Radio Free Europe, Laughing, Moral Kiosk, and Perfect Circle. The last one there reminded me of some other songs I heard, really great melodies. Very happy we got this album.

Number four from REM, and that's four albums without "Losing My Religion." Alex was really hyped on this one, telling me it was his favorite we've had so far. To me it's one of the bottom two, maybe my least favorite. I knew listening to it that it was either very early or very late REM, because it sounds much more subdued, lowkey. Stipe isn't singing as strong, either because he's getting old or because he's not sure of himself yet. Turns out it's their debut, so I'm right. And even though it's my least favorite I've heard from them, still a good handful of tracks I'm keeping. Subdued vocals aside, the melodies are great, and you could tell from a debut like this that these guys were going places. The last few tracks on here lost me a little bit, if this were trimmed to end before that point I'd be rating it higher for sure. I feel bad saying this on the one REM album that Alex liked the most, but this would probably be my pick to replace with Out of Time, to get both "Losing My Religion" and "Shiny Happy People" on this list. Shoutout to REM though, serious hitmakers, haven't heard a single album from them less than a 3.5, which is really good. Favorite tracks: Radio Free Europe, Laughing, Moral Kiosk, Perfect Circle, Catapult, Sitting Still. Album art: Some mysterious dried out forest shot, creeping vines and stuff all over the place. It's unsettling, actually reminds me of the creature from that Night Gallery episode, Brenda. I like it though, it's effective. 3.5/5

Great album.

A lesser REM album. Nothing really did it for me.

This was aight.

Chill thing, must listen again.

Started off great, got repetitive

Favourite track, "Laughing." "West of the Fields" is a weird one. The album kind of blends together a little too much for me. It's not bad music, but it isn't spectacular either.

Haven't listened to the whole album in years.

Murmur is the debut album of Athens, Georgia jangle pop quartet R.E.M. It was released on April 12, 1983 to major critical and popular acclaim – Rolling Stone magazine named it the top album of the year and it peaked at #36 on the Billboard album chart. Michael Stipe’s enigmatic singing and mysterious lyricism coupled with Peter Buck’s Byrds-esque guitar work turned into one of the most interestingly introverted albums of the 1980s alternative rock movement. The front cover depicts a field of kudzu – “the plant that ate the South” – a weed which grows so rapidly and aggressively that it overtakes any area it grows in and kills off all other plants around it. The back cover depicts a trestle in Athens which has since become famous for its association with this album – becoming known as the “Murmur Trestle”. It was saved from demolition in 2000 and again in 2012 due to its claim to fame. Source: https://genius.com/ (accessed on June 1, 2024).

very nice

- I am really not a fan of R.E.M. At all. I will say that I liked this album a bit more than I was expecting, but that is because I was expecting the absolute worst. I just find the band's sound to be annoying 99% of the time and very characteristic of what I do not enjoy about rock. - Lush sounds overall, but I am most impressed by R.E.M.'s ability to specifically focus on certain instrumental isolation. There are just distinct moments when the percussion, the guitar, or the piano will just pop out; those are the best moments. - Enjoyed "Laughing" (once again, those percussive isolations) and "Perfect Circle." - Found "Talk About The Passion" grating. "We Walk" was even worse. - This does sound remarkably forward-thinking for 1983. Still do not enjoy it overall, though.

A bit repetitive but otherwise good

One of the greatest albums from one of the greatest bands in Alternative

Not particularly good or memorable.

R.E.M. has always been a bigger concept than artist for me. I love what they represent, but their music puts me to sleep.

I think this is their best album although ot had no huge single that I can remember off the bat. Solid composing and very clean sound with great guitar player mike mills yet the instruments are complementing michale stipes amazing voice. You can actually feel hos emotions in every single song. Very solid album.

Genuinely shocked at how uninspired this album was

good album but not my favorite R.E.M.

While I enjoyed the change of pace from their other album that popped up before: Automatic for the people, I unfortunately did not find this album to be in anyway engaging.

Much more accessible than I remember. Glorious stuff

4 great album

When REM were cool and interesting

I liked this a fair bit more than Document. Radio Free Europe is a good song. A few samey tracks though. A solidly high three.

There's nothing wrong with this album, but I also have no intention of going out of my way to listen to it again either. There were some songs I liked like '9-9' and 'West of the Fields', but most of the album didn't vibe with me with the overly bright, twangy, and repetitive sound. Overall I was waiting for it to end.

It’s kind of difficult to explain how important R.E.M were to American Rock, so I won’t even try here. Everything that came after Murmur either followed it directly or reacted against it, and so while it’s not my personal favourite of their albums, it’s got to be up here for sheer influence alone

REM is so boring

R.E.M.'s near perfect debut album still stands the test of time to this day. Masterpiece. I wouldn't be where I am without this band, and I for sure wouldn't be as big of a music fan.

good album, i can see why they became popular from this

70/100

Fairplay to REM it's a pretty good fucking album

Boring. Sounds like Christian rock. Surprised I didn't really like it. I think it's the lead singers voice.

R.E.M. definitely belongs on this list but they have better albums than this one. This is a fine debut showing a lot of promise for what was yet to come.

A classic. Early REM. I saw them before famous in New Brunswick NJ in the 80s playing local pubs. Solid

Love the mono stereo sound. Very unique

This was a bit dull. I'd heard the album before a few times and it never left much of an impression on me. Having relistened to it for the first time in decades, it's about the same as I remembered.

Was okay

I know some of REM's work, but not so much this album, aside from Radio Free Europe. The overall sound is good, but I didn't really get hooked by any of the songs.

I'm not sure if I've heard this all the way though before, though I recognize about half the songs. I do like how stylistically this album is a little.ore variable than some of their later albums, as they probably still haven't locked in their "sound" yet.

This doesn't hit as hard as Green or some of their other later albums, but is still insanely listenable for being their debut - and, too, is utterly unlike anything else you would have heard on the radio at that time. To have the courage of your conviction to blaze this trail is admirable.

What are they singing about

I was never a huge REM fan outside of the 90s radio staples, but wow, what a killer debut. The band is already fully formed, there's not a single bad track, the musicianship is tight and production sounds timeless and *nothing* like 1983! I genuinely don't know how it ranks compared to their other albums in the court of popular opinion, but as far as I'm concerned, this one's pure 🔥.

It's been a while since I got a really good album. Although I've never heard of the album before, it pleasantly surprised me. The instruments and vocals make songs that are creative and come together nice. The drums are especially good. The only song that wasn't great was, "We Walk" but otherwise definitely a good album to hear. Glad I got to listen to this album, 4/5

i dont particularly dislike R.E.M., i just find them quite boring. this album really cranked it up with the boredom as well.

Meh

This album is very soft and good to play in the background while playing games or just relaxing

Not my favorite R.E.M. album, but a pretty good one. A nice easy listen.

Lost a star about halfway through.

Gæti hugsað mér að fíla þessa í botn ef ég hefði verið 23 árið 83 en annars bara ókei plata. Uppáhalds lag: Radio Free Europe

meeeeeehhhhhhh.

Not my favorite R.E.M. album. 3.

Not my favorite R.E.M. album, but still a damn good one. Relevance to this list: 5/5 Personal enjoyment: 4/5

Not a fan of the vocalist. Similar to the Smiths, maybe worse.

It’s REM in the eighties - it feels just as you would expect, if you’re more familiar with their nineties outings.

I just got their album Green as a pick a week ago, and considering this is what I get 2nd, what a yawn fest.

I'm sure it was revolutionary but doesn't really stand up even to other REM albums in my opinion, kinda dragging

Great album, but I prefer life’s rich pageant and document more

Really solid all the way through. Not a bad song on the album. No stand outs either. I liked the bass tones and vocals.

Some albums in this project pop up like an unexpected visit or call from an old friend. How are you doing REM? Where have you been? Keep in touch. I miss you.

I thought R.E.M. was a later '80s-'90s band. Seems ahead of its time in '83. Super influential sound. A transition from the pop of the 70s to the grunge of the 80s.

Mmm, may need to listen to this one again as it didn’t leave an impressions.

It never used to be my favorite of the early R.E.M. offerings, because I always considered it a bit inchoate. Turns out, this just means it’s the album of theirs that’s grown the most in my estimation over the years. It’s all there already: the jangly guitars, the obscurely-literary lyrics, the deep, dark insouciance of 23-year-old genius.

Мур-мур Мяу-мяу Пошел нахуй 8/10