R.E.M. - In Time: The Best of R.E.M. 1988-2003 (Special Edition)

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Free Music Notes for In Time: The Best of R.E.M. 1988-2003 (Special Edition)

Free Music Review: Automatic, Baby
Hit: 5 Stars

But with that minor quibble aside, I have to say that "In Time" is definitely a more-than-worthy follow-up to Eponymous, the band's pre-1986 greatest hits collection. (In fact, it's really making me wish that that album had come with an extra b-sides bonus disc as well...) With the exception of "Shiny," all of the classics are represented, and the two new tracks aren't simply forgettable also-rans either. I first heard "Bad Day" a few weeks ago in concert, and I was very happy to find that the studio version sounds just as good. It has a very "End Of The World As We Know It" feel to it, and as that's one of my favorite R.E.M. songs, it makes "Bad Day" a winner in my books.

Kudos, also, for some very good b-sides. Versions of songs that are more recognizable than most of what you'll find on Dead Letter Office are much appreciated, and I was extremely pleased to find "Drive" and "It's A Free World, Baby" on there. (Though come to think of it, I kinda think those two should've made the main disc; screw "E-Bow" and "Electrolite".)

Finally, I have to say that the booklet was a nice touch. Nothing earth-shattering, but a neat little reflection on some of the group's greatest hits by Peter Buck; it's cool to learn what he really thinks about some of the songs. ("Man On The Moon," the quintessential R.E.M. song? Interesting...) Also funny that he takes great pride in the band's role (imagined or otherwise) in ending the Batman film franchise. *grin* I'm curious, though- if "Stand" is the stupidest song they've ever written, what does that say about "Shiny Happy People"?

Anyway, I could go on for hours, but there's really no need; the CD pretty much speaks for itself. It's the greatest hits of one of the greatest bands of our time... that's really all you need to know. Highly recommended for hardcore and casual fans alike, and a good way to introduce new listeners to the group. (Probably more accessible than the slightly dated Eponymous, much as I love me my "Driver 8".) Despite the absence of "Shiny," a solid 5 stars.

(But with that said, years from now when they eventually release The R.E.M. Anthology, I'd better see those shiny happy people, man, or there'll be hell to pay...)

In Time: The Best of R.E.M. 1988-2003 (Special Edition) Poster

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