Its no wonder this is one of the best albums of the 90's (Automatic For The People - R.E.M.)

Member Name: Hudson

Product:	Automatic For The People - R.E.M.
Date:	30/10/00 (12 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Well written and unique

Disadvantages: Oe bad song

When Automatic For The People was released in 1992 REM were already a household name mostly due to the pravious years release of the Out of Time Album. Automatic For the People gave them yet further sucess and its no wonder that its become one of the most critically acclaimed albums of the decade. Michael Stipe, Bill Berry, Peter Buck and Mike Mills have surely got to be thought of as some of modern musics best songwriters. Their style is original and since it is so complex and skillful few other have the bility to emulate them.
All 12 songs are of a very high standard but the one most people will know is Everybody Hurts, it and Shiny Happy People have probably become the two songs which REM will b remembered for. This is a shame since Automatic For The People shows that they have a lot more on offer. Nightswimming is has a similar sound to Everybody Hurts but it is pure piano with an oboe and violins featuring a little. Try Not to Breathe, Drive and Find the River all have a sort of relaxing yet upbeat feel to them. Man on the Moon is a great catchy song which was recently featured on a Jim Carrey film, can't remember the name but you'll love the song. New Orleans Instrumental No 1 must be considered as one of these songs just made to boost the track list by a number but all 12 songs are good.
I'd recommend this above REM's more recent album, UP. Its more catchy and I think it appeals to a wider audience than UP does. This is album represents the bands songwriting and performing abilities better than UP which seemed a bit experimental. The is by far my fav REM album

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