R.E.M.Accelerate
Warner Bros.
2008
It's been difficult being an R.E.M. fan during these past few years. When I mention this to friends and music enthusiast amigos they roll their eyes in disgust. Since when did R.E.M. get such a bad rap? Don't tell me it's all backlash because of "Shiny Happy People?" I was one of the few who have stood by the band before their critically labeled resurrection on Accelerate. Songs like "Living Well is the Best Revenge" and "Man Sized Wreath" added a much-needed shot of adrenaline that was missing from the R.E.M. of recent years. There were some internal creative tensions that did permeate within this Athens, Ga trio during the last few years, which finally got resolved before Accelerate came to fruition. As a result, Accelerate showcases a rejuvenated R.E.M. that you hear in Mills' vibrant harmonies, Buck's electrified riffs and Stipe's more refined lyrics which come to light on the first single "Supernatural Superserious." The anthem for a teenage geek generation, "Supernatural" is one of my favorite songs of the year. I recall hearing it in Rome during a vacation this past Spring (those Europeans have taste). Michael Stipe sings "Music will provide the light/ you cannot resist" on the fiery finale "I'm Gonna DJ." You hear this flame burn throughout Accelerate, as some songs like "Houston" burn on low while others like "Man Sized Wreath" explode to eleven. Sometimes quiet and often loud, Accelerate sparks a new phase in the life of this dynamic and enduring entity whose future is thunderously bright. Now those same amigos understand why I've stood behind one of my favorite bands after all of these years. Back in the glow of glorious acclaim, this isn't a comeback—Buck, Mills and Stipe have returned to unleash Accelerate and reclaim their mantle of greatness on their road towards immortality.
Adrian Ernesto Cepeda
12.15.2008
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