SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: R.E.M. – UP (25th ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

R.E.M.
UP (25th ANNIVERSARY EDITION)
CRAFT RECORDINGS

November 10, 2023, marked a momentous occasion for music lovers worldwide as R.E.M.’s groundbreaking 11th studio album, Up, celebrated its 25th anniversary.

The newly released deluxe 2-CD/1 Blu-Ray edition of Up offers fans a chance to rediscover this melodic masterpiece. Among the treasures included is R.E.M.’s much-talked-about guest appearance on the hit TV series “Party of Five,” showcasing their versatility as artists.

Up stands as a testament to the band’s unwavering commitment to reinvention and sonic exploration. Released in 1998, the album showcased the band’s willingness to experiment while staying true to their unique identity.

What makes Up truly remarkable is its ability to captivate listeners with its introspective words and thought-provoking themes. From the melancholy introspect of “At My Most Beautiful” to the haunting exploration of loss in “E-Bow the Letter,” the album invites us to delve into our own feelings and experiences. In contrast, a song like “Losing My Religion” will catapult you right back to the beginning sounds of R.E.M. and wanting to hear more of those sweet rock anthems.

Listening to Up is like embarking on a lucid dream. It is as though they have discovered a portal to the mystical realm of the mind and, in turn, invite us to join them on this extraordinary journey.

The sole drawback of R.E.M.’s album, Up, lies in its capacity to appeal to a broader audience.  However, devotees will assert that it is an invaluable encounter, and they are known for their unwavering devotion.

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