Album Review: R.E.M. ‘Accelerate’

By: Mozzer | in: Music |

R.E.M.

After a string of listenable, yet lackluster releases (Up, Reveal, Around the Sun), R.E.M. retools and gives us a taut and energetic album.

I remember listening to 2004’s Around the Sun and thinking, “Man, these guys are ready to hang it up.” Well, all that has changed with Accelerate. In keeping with the album’s title, the Athens trio has broken out of their stupor, upped the tempo, and rediscovers what it is to rock.

One thing I found really refreshing was the prominence of Peter Buck’s guitar work. Buck seems to be challenging Michael Stipe for the lead in the up-tempo songs. Stipe is no slouch either; his vocals are never been this commanding and confident in years. Gone is his sleepy romanticism, and it is a welcome change.

The band hits the ground running with “Living Well Is The Best Revenge”. Aggressive and relentless, it’s an excellent opener and proof the band’s had its caffeine this morning. “Hollow Man” combines contemplative breaks with an anthemic chorus that’s sure to please everyone. “Supernatural Superserious” is a masterful single with its catchy blend of rock riffs and jangly guitars. I expect this one to be played everywhere this summer. It’s that damn good.

R.E.M.

Things do slow down midway; however, the songs aren’t aimless dirges. “Houston” is a maritime ode observing the hurricane Katrina aftermath and the promise of starting anew. “Until the Day is Done” is hopeful, and moves with a leisurely stride. The songs provide a nice break in between the frenzied numbers.

The album ends with the jaunty and silly “I’m Gonna DJ at the End of the World”. It’s an unusual placement for an album, but it further demonstrates R.E.M.’s commitment to abandoning their broodiness. Once again invoking the ‘Accelerate’ theme, the entire experience clocks in at a fleeting 35 minutes. And what a satisfying half-hour it is.

Verdict: It’s quick, it’s exuberant, and it rocks.

R.E.M. - Supernatural Superserious

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_We6ubpUHZs

Bonus: Stream Accelerate from iLike here.

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Posted on March 30, 2008

Comments

5 Responses to “Album Review: R.E.M. ‘Accelerate’”

DThompson on April 1st, 2008 1:44 am

I don’t know, mozzer, as tempted as I am by the news of a good REM album… Are you SURE it’s really good?

Charbarred on April 1st, 2008 4:53 am

I’ve pretty much written them off after the past couple of albums. The promise of it being a rock album really put me off (I consider Monster to be one of their worst albums). But then I listened to it.
It’s really good. Michael Stipe seems to have found his soul again, and the band is re-energized. Ignore the awful single they released and have a listen to the entire album.

mozzer on April 1st, 2008 7:32 am

Dude, I love the single! It may be a little too poppy, but I think of it as a peace offering to the alienated masses.

DThompson: would I steer you wrong. Ok, don’t answer that and get the album anyway.

Charbarred on April 1st, 2008 8:18 am

OK, I take it back…single not awful, just not as strong as the other tracks on the album.

Itax on April 2nd, 2008 1:10 pm

I had, likewise, written them off. It seemed to me they were turning into “geriatric alternative” and that is boring as hell. However I have heard from other sources as well that they had created a more rawkin album so I will give it a try. If it blows maybe I can trade it for a barium enema.