Review Summary: R.E.M. make a name for themselves with an outstanding debut album that is both compelling and vigorous.
R.E.M. was one of the bands that ultimately defined the alternative rock genre, and the band's debut album, Murmur sets that stage. Released back in 1983, following a promising EP, Murmur introduces the sound of an early, blossoming R.E.M. abound with mumbling from Michael Stipe, jangly guitars, and clattering percussion.
Murmur is by far one of R.E.M.'s best albums. Most of the tracks complement one another and allow R.E.M. to show off their impressive songwriting capabilities. Throughout the album, there is a milieu of mystery that gives meaning to each one of these tracks. It is often very difficult to ascertain what Stipe is singing about, but it is clear that he is putting his heart into his muted words.
The album bursts out of the gates with the rocking "Radio Free Europe", a blazing and ardent number that serves as the foundation for the other tracks. Stipe's vocals soar through the rousing chorus with authority, while Peter Buck delivers a dynamic layering of guitar. "Pilgrimage" follows the lead with an abnormal rhythm and compelling progression. Stipe sings about a two-headed cow and is reinforced with superb backing vocals as the song branches off.
The optimistic "Laughing" exhibits a cheerful melody that forms a very lovable tune. Also, the bass provides an orderly direction for a song that benefits from its downright purity and simplicity. The acoustic guitar guiding "Talk About the Passion" adds a more sensible effect to the track and a level of sentiment that is accomplished in its brief three-minute length. Murmur takes a quiet detour with the fragile "Perfect Circle", the album's most heartwarming song in which Stipe displays some of his best vocals.
The second half of the album starts with "Catapult", a vibrant, rollicking ride through breezy percussion and guitars. Furthermore, "Sitting Still", another highlight, is a ravishing rock song that captures all the traits that make old R.E.M. so captivating. The bright guitars that follow Stipe throughout the verses engross the listener before expanding into an instantly memorable chorus. "Shaking Through" shimmers from the first note and presents a winsome beat that can attract any casual listener. Buried underneath the layers of varied instrumentation is an alluring piano that contributes to the essence of the song. Finally, "We Walk" is another short but pleasurable trip into the numerous sounds Murmur has to offer.
R.E.M. sets the bar very high with its stellar debut, containing some of the band's best moments. This is where R.E.M.'s legacy began, as they gradually evolved from an underground college rock band into prominent musical role models. Murmur represents a band with a bright future and an arsenal of great ideas. Thus, Murmur is both a powerful and youthful masterpiece.
Favorite Tracks:
Sitting Still
Radio Free Europe
Pilgrimage
Shaking Through
Laughing
