Up is the eleventh studio album by the iconic American rock band R.E.M., released in 1998. This album marked a significant departure from their earlier sound, showcasing a more experimental and introspective side of the band. The album would be the first without drummer Bill Berry, who left the year before. In his place, R.E.M. used session drummers Joey Warner and Barrett Martin as well as drum machines. While some longtime fans might have found this shift in style a bit jarring at first, Up is an album that deserves appreciation for its musical evolution and lyrical depth. Up hasn’t been available on vinyl since its initial release in 1998, for its twenty-fifth anniversary R.E.M. has partnered with Craft Recordings to reissue the album on both a standard and special edition vinyl.
The album opens with “Airportman,” a unique and somewhat enigmatic, almost instrumental piece, setting the tone for the tone of the album as a whole. The track is built around ambient and atmospheric sounds, creating a sense of anticipation and reflection. It features a repeating, haunting electronic melody along with subtle keyboard and percussive elements, which combine to create a mysterious and somewhat melancholic mood. Michael Stipe contributes distant, whispered vocals that are almost indecipherable. Musically, Up experiments with electronic elements and a more layered, atmospheric sound. Peter Buck’s jangly guitar is less prominent, but the use of keyboards and synths adds a new dimension to their music. Tracks like “Suspicion” and “Parakeet” are good examples of this sonic exploration, with a lush and ethereal quality that creates a unique ambiance throughout the album. The band’s willingness to evolve and take creative risks is commendable.
The album has its moments of upbeat energy, as well, with tracks like “Hope” and “Lotus” providing a balance to the more introspective songs. These tracks retain some of R.E.M.’s signature catchiness and serve as a reminder of the band’s ability to craft memorable hooks. One of the standout aspects of Up is the lyrical content. Michael Stipe’s songwriting delves into themes of change, introspection, and the passage of time, offering a sense of vulnerability and contemplation. The lyrics are thought-provoking and open to interpretation, which has always been a trademark of R.E.M.’s work. The singles from the album, “Daysleeper” and “At My Most Beautiful” showcase this lyrical maturity, with Stipe’s distinctive, enigmatic delivery making the words even more compelling.
Overall, Up is an album that may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of R.E.M.’s earlier works, but it’s a testament to their artistic growth and willingness to push boundaries. While it may not resonate with all fans of the band’s earlier sound, it remains a compelling piece of work that showcases the band’s ability to evolve and adapt. Up is an album that rewards repeated listens, as its subtleties and depth reveal themselves over time, making it a valuable addition to R.E.M.’s discography.