33 years ago today (4/12/83), R.E.M. released their debut studio LP Murmur. Murmur drew critical acclaim upon its release for its unusual sound, defined by singer Michael Stipe’s cryptic lyrics, guitarist Peter Buck’s jangly guitar style, and bassist Mike Mills’ melodic bass-lines. Murmur was Rolling Stone’s Best Album of 1983, beating Michael Jackson’s Thriller, The Police’s Synchronicity and U2’s War. Watch R.E.M. play “Radio Free Europe” off Murmur while making their first television appearance on 10/6/83 on Late Night with David Letterman.
