This album will remind listeners of the old IRS years-- the length of the CD is short, but sweet! REM does an amazing job as always. Two thumbs up dude.
Since I've been following R.E.M. now for almost 20 years, I was hoping their new album would return to the "rocker" sound of the mid 90's. I am pleased to report that the album is a must listen and is loud, fast and in your face. It flows very nicely and quickly (32 mins) and most songs catch on only after one listen. Hollow man is my favorite. (so far) Any R.E.M. fan will find this new album to be very enjoyable. Some of the songs evoke their early 80's live show energy.
R.E.M. is back with a long-awaited album that delivers more than expected and you won't be disappointed. If you like the R.E.M. from the 80s and 90s, this album is for you. A few tunes that are reminiscent of "Automatic for the People" and a few that remind one of the "Green" era. Best of all, because of the new Producer (who also produced U2's last album) almost every song is singable and drums-driven... if you've heard their last 2 albums, you know what I mean... the lack of drums and singable songs disappointed listeners. ACCELERATE IS GREAT! GO GET IT!
a must buy :) R.E.M. brings back the old IRS sound in the new Accelerate CD. Supernatural Superserious is a song for the ages. Living Well is The Best Revenge harks back to days of MONSTER. Definitley see them on tour this Summer 2008.
Every artist needs a little time away from the spotlight so they can take a breath and prepare themselves to make a great and worthy comeback. This is what these three fine young men from Athens, GA did and the final product they delivered after a hiatus of four years couldn't be better. "Accelerate" is a subtle mix of old school R.E.M. from the IRS years to the mainstream appeal from Warner Bros. years. The CD-only version is relatively short (running 35 minutes or so only) and has great tunes. Michael's singing style is more passionate than ever. The band still plays consistently and vigorously. This is a top release for the Alternative Rock genre this year. Yes, they're mainstream for a while, but still makes alternative sound. Thanks God.