REM’s sound was totally 80’s, and adapted and drove the same sound into the 90’s. That’s why they were relevant throughout their career. But it was established in the 80’s. Listen to some bands of the 90’s (even grunge!) emulated this sound. And vice versa. As MONSTER was made soon after Buck had moved to Seattle. No sooner had he moved in , that Kurt and Courtney bought the house next door. And Bucks house was getting visited by MOOKIE BLAYLOCK, Nirvana , mothe Love Bone, Soundgarden and many more. And when you listen to MONSTER, it is their most sonic album ever. Not a coincidence!
@@fozzietaylor1111 Its about a schizophrenic that interrupted a live CBS news broadcast insisting he know the frequency of the voices in his head. I watched it live. It was the most bizzare and funny things ive seen
"I've had my fun, now it's time to serve your conscience overseas." and "We are 'agents' of the free." The whole song is about Vietnam, Agent Orange, militarism and the young men who get broken on the rack of somebody else's agenda.
I love that you made me love an R.E.M. song that I had lower on my list simply through your enthusiasm and fresh perspective in listening to it. So happy to find your show. It's great!
It's really amazing to watch the moment when two people "get it" about a band. It happens to everybody with music. but its amazing to see it on a video. So glad to see two dudes "get it" about REM. shiny happy people rules and so does Kate Pierson.
Bang And Blame (1994) has a similar guitar tone to Orange Crush, but it's like a sorrowful, quiet rage sound. I love that song, too; it is 🔥🔥🔥. Love you guys!!! ❤️❤️❤️
REM ruled the airwaves. Crossed many genre boundaries. Lots of humans liked it. I am a metal head at heart (Megadeth) but loved REM! - Alternative Rock.
REM is my favorite band. You touched on how the lyrics and serious themes are juxtaposed with this happy, poppy sound. Somehow, it all works. Glad you guys enjoyed it so much. Other songs I would consider must-listens for new fans: "Fall on Me" "Man on the Moon" "What's the Frequency, Kenneth?" and "Nightswimming".
R.E.M were special from the get go and remained so for more decades than most. Their music is one of the most inspired and independent you'll find, through more than two decades and a lot of production. Try "Man on the moon", "Gardening at night", "Fall on me", "Driver 8", ....almost endless.
R.E.M are one of my all time favorite bands. They were master's of making incredibly catchy melodies with easily singable hooks while at the same time having really smart lyrical content. They're truly legendary.
Im 58 and have never listened to R.E.M until this channel but yes i have heard different songs on the radio. I am hooked to Monster Whats the Frequency Kenneth and Night Swimming off another one of their albums. Im so happy you all turned me on to their music thank you! If you get a chance please please please react to Whats the frequency Kenneth! Great song!
Thank you guys so much for giving R.E.M. a listen! ❤ If you do have an R.E.M. marathon, might I suggest Radio Song? There are several other great hits of theirs I could recommend, but you'll probably already know them, whereas Radio Song may be one that you have not heard before.
It's a anti-war song... "orange crush" is the slang term for Agnet Orange. The opening drum fill (and after the bridge) is meant to mimic machine gun fire. MIcheal Stipe's father had served in the helicopter corps in vietnam (you can hear the helicopters in the breakdown section). REM had a knack of disguising the meaning of their songs (you guys picked out the more upbeat nature of the music). For another song, check out the One I Love which people thought was a love song, but it's actually the opposite when you study the lyrics.
There's a long history of popular songs being grossly misinterpreted by the masses. My favorite is Sting telling of how people totally mistook "Every Breath You Take", thinking it's a love song when it's actually about a stalker. He actually encountered people who had used it in their wedding. "Um ... okay .... Well, good luck".
Although the execution by REM is better, when hearing Orange Crush back in 1988 or 1989 the use of the drums to mimic machinegun fire immedeately reminded me to the song S.Fr. Nomenklatura part 1 by Front 242 from 1984 where they did use the drums the same way.
REM marathon! Do it! In a chronological order, to appreciate the growth and refining their sound over the years. As far as catalogs, theirs is vast.. incredible, so much to discover!
R.E.M. are great and their catalog is extremely varied. For a wide sampling, avoiding the songs you've already mentioned in the video, try "Radio Free Europe," (their first single), "Driver 8," "Monty Got a Raw Deal," "Crush with Eyeliner", and "Überlin."
Props for the MONTY GOT A RAW DEAL recommend. Automatic for the People is one of the greatest albums I've ever heard. SWEETNESS FOLLOWS, right before it is an incredible back to back. Begin the Begin, Texarkana, Bang and Blame, Circus Envy, I Don't Sleep, I Dream, So. Central Rain, and the epic, LEAVE. all great choices
I think Bill Berry is such an underrated drummer and should get name checked more in the pantheon of great drummers. Just a solid in the pocket drummer. Mike Mills is phenomenal bass player who’s melodic bass lines were almost the lead instrument in the band. And Peter Buck could sound like 2 or 3 guitarists playing at once with his use of appregios to fill out the space. I love the early REM stuff. Great band.
He doesn't need those high notes, they wouldn't express who he is, and nobody needs to hear high singing full of nothing behind it, if you know what I mean.
Hüsker Dü is another band considered to be pioneers of alternative rock. They were a Hardcore Punk band in the early 80's who expanded and changed their sound a lot in just the few short years they were together. They'd be a badass band for you guys to do (along with other Hardcore legends like Black Flag, Minor Threat, more Bad Brains, Misfits, etc.). Here's some suggestions for songs by them: Something I Learned Today The Girl Who Lives On Heaven Hill Chartered Trips Celebrated Summer Green Eyes Divide and Conquer Don't Want to Know If You Are Lonely
I've noticed they're very impressed by complicated melodic metal bands whereas hardcore and punk bands they seem to the snuff at. I don't think they understand the nuances and styles regarding that kind of music
The band mellowed out a little over time, and the lead singer (Bob Mould) eventually formed a band called Sugar that might be a better starting point; I'd at least suggest starting the bottom of that (very good) list and going up. A great band with a lot going on, but early on they used all their speed and anger as a shield, so working backwards in time might help bring it into perspective. That and any excuse to big-up Copper Blue as an album and get a one-in-a-million shot at a reaction to "A Good Idea" which just rips.
The really funny thing about "Shiny happy people" is that it was meant to be ironic & sang in a mocking way. The label told them they needed a happy pop song on their album so they gave them one lol. Thing is, they can't make a bad song even if they try.
@@craigros5 the video is hilarious because you can tell they really don't want to be there, especially Michael Stipe. It's like Michael's just thinking "What tf has my life come to" 😂😂
@@mondegreen9709 heres the thing, they are going to overlook this gem because it's not going to get the votes. This song is head and shoulders better than The one I love, which will probably win. Don't get me wrong, I like the song, but c'mon. Can't get there from should be a radio classic and got lost under Driver 8, another great song.
REM pioneered the success of college rock and the rise of young, unique bands on independent labels throughout the 80s. They also led the way for those bands to sign to major labels while maintaining their sound and integrity. They have a massive and lasting influence on American music. They are quite arguably the greatest band in American history.
One of my favorite songs! Such a great song opening. That’s it, I’m going to play this on guitar, as well. Love Orange Crush, Love REM. Don’t Go Back To Rockville is a great one, too. And yes! Check out PAVEMENT, for sure.
Aside from Peter Buck's guitar tone on this song, which is amazing as you guys noted, I am equally impressed with his restraint throughout the song. There is a temptation to go all out with that groove but his guitar lines with that groove is just magical. Amazing song!!
Some folks love them, some hate them. They're so prolific... so many hit songs over their career. They were able to stay consistent and interesting despite changing times and scenes. They have a hit for every mood. Recognizable.
The arpeggiated chords are just chords that are picked separately instead of strumming the notes at once. Classic REM. Check The Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr.
Peter Buck's signature guitar tone is considered "jangle-y" or "chime-y", and defined a genre that was decidedly not grunge. Michael Stipe's lyrics are more poetry in that it demands a lot of listener interpretation to understand.
I've heard their genre described as "jangle-core", as well as "college rock". Also, Chris Funk of The Decemberists got Peter Buck to teach him the Jangle thing for their album "The King is Dead" - beautiful jangly-folky-indy rock!
The cymbal work is by Bill Berry. Berry was known for his great hi-hat grooves. Lots of R.E.M. songs have that driving soulful hi-hat groove. Bill Berry and Mike Mills are one of the best rhythm sections ever.
This song always brings me back - this is the last song I heard before I went into boot camp - it was just released that day for me; had to wait until I finished boot camp to listen to the whole thing - I listened to it thereafter for days on end, and still listen to Green to this day.
@@Katy-sh3ru I feel the same way about my favorite bands. Mushrooms 🍄 plus a classic album or song Gives you that feeling of hearing it for the 1st time again. That's a ultimate life hack😏.
@@ancientruinsofficial haha, yeah, good shout. There are some it wouldn't work for, though, because I've already enjoyed them that way 😅 sometimes on multiple occasions
Gotta go back and listen to the early stuff when they were young and still finding that sound. I recommend "Gardening at Night" but honestly there isn't a bad record.
I absolutely love that you guys mentioned it reminds you of Nirvana and the Chil Peppers, because both of those bands recognize them as influences... how great is music?
I wish so much we could still access the old B and B music video recordings. They only show the cartoon parts now because of copy write issues or something. That was the best part of the show!
@@NunYaO I said it basically because REM is not grunge it’s basically intellectual rock. I am not crapping on REM at all. I just remember the Beavis and Butthead quote because it was funny and true
College rock was the precursor to Alternative rock because early bands like R.E.M were played mostly on independent college radio stations In the 80's They were big influences on alternative who were more influenced by punk and new wave...especially by Velvet Undergrounund as was Grunge.
These Days, Flowers of Guatemala, Radio Free Europe (Hib Tone version), Romance (Night Garden), Fall on Me, What’s The Frequency, Kenneth? and Star Me Kitten are all songs I request that you react to.
"I've got my spine, I've got my orange crush..." They are referring in the lyrics to the nature of Agent orange... the chemical caused spina bifida in the children borne to the people exposed. Many people developed cancer and many had children with deformities and other genetic diseases. It is most definitely a serious song in the guise of a uplifting song. "I've had my fun..." is an ironic statement in that the person who is singing is the narrator and he is having a most terrible time.
Spine refers to courage, not spina bifida. Like, when you call somebody spineless. "I've got my courage, and I have my agent orange (to go to war)." And "I've had my fun" is not an ironic statement. The song is about youth, particularly high school graduates, leaving their care-free lifestyle as teenagers to go fight in Vietnam. Orange Crush is doing double duty here because it's both a nickname for Agent Orange AND it evokes a child's beverage.
So glad you guys enjoyed this. I worry that given the heaviness of a lot of stuff covered in the channel, that more alternative and indie music would be considered bland or too poppy. Excited to see what's next! Keep it up fellas 🤟🏻
omg I'm so late to the party on this but I remember walking into a RECORD STORE in the MALL and this song started playing and got my attention so fast. Of course I bought the CD. ha ha "I'm not sure all these people understand..." SIGH
I was living in Athens during the REM, Pylon, B-52's, Guadalcanal Diary etc., etc. heyday. I got to see them play this album live from the Fox Theatre - yes I'm a lucky man. That sound you guys are reacting to is a signature Athens vibe rooted in old school rockabilly, that made a comeback during that late 70's / 80's period. Flat Duo Jets was another two piece band that had that signature sound.
I grew up in Memphis and they were huge. I wasn't in Athens at that time, but having worked there for some time, I can honestly hear that Athens sound. From what I heard, they LIVED in my friend's house on Central (Memphis) when this album was recorded.
@@kevinm4138 I agree and Pylon was really the genesis of the late 70's (1979) and 80's music and art scene in Athens. I was going to art school at the time and can't tell you how many times I saw guys from various bands making concert fliers at the downtown Kinkos. Another great band was Wide Spread Panic. It was a magical time.
22:50 it was REM mainstreaming alt for years that paved the way for things like Nirvana. In other words, REM was the biggest thing in the world for years and years before Nirvana came along
In terms of the song itself, Orange Crush is a reference to the use of Agent Orange during Vietnam. It was created to kill a lot of the thick brush in the jungle, but many kids, families and soldiers became sick from exposure.
My cousin had a life of tragedy from Agent Orange, her husband served came home and she thought she was pregnant well it was agent orange in his sperm that mimicked her having a baby but it was cancer growing in her spread up to her brain, a life of hardship and despair paralyzed on her left side and yes her husband left her. Tragic.
Great video, I have every REM album, Green is a favourite but the less popular "Up" is a 10/10 and the only one where I never skip a track. Would love to hear your thoughts on "Up".
There’s a reason you guys have over a million subscribers (myself included). Real and thoughtful reactions and intelligent discussion and reflection. Y’all are the creme de la creme of reaction videos!
We around Denver, and Colorado at large, liked this tune a lot - because......... our Broncos defense was referred to as the Orange Crush for a long time. This tune got a LOT of radio play around here.
REM’s sound changed so much over 30 years, and yet they remained 100% original. I’ve been a fan since 1988 and here are a few REM suggestions that span the decades. Have fun with discovering more from REM! ❤️ I’m Gonna DJ (2008) Until the Day is Done Walk Unafraid (1998) You’re In the Air King of Comedy (1994) Circus Envy Ignoreland (1992) Finest Worksong (1988) Lightnin’ Hopkins Begin the Begin (1986) These Days Just A Touch 9 - 9 (1983) Perfect Circle Radio Free Europe
This is REM after they became huge and a bit formulaic... Their earlier albums like Murmur, Fables and The Reconstruction, Lifes Rich Pageant were all unbelievably good, and totally original... Give South Central Rain, Driver 8 or Can't Get There From Here a spin...
Monster got pretty close. It may be closer to Glam Rock, but the grunge influence is definitely prevalent on tracks like I Took Your Name and Circus Envy.
It's important to realize that before there was Grunge there was R.E.M... REM came into popularity almost 15 years before the 'Grunge movement' came into popularity. Bands like REM and The B-52's came out of Athens, GA, and were more considered 'alternative' bands.
Arpeggio just means to pick the individual notes of a chord one at a time instead of strumming them all together at the same time. Most of the time the lyrics from REM are impossible to know what the hell they are talking about. I used to think he didn't want you to follow him while he drank his Orange Crush soda. Haha
this is an excellent example of why your channel is so good; you have great ears and capable of really interesting insights, even when you don't know a lot about the group, or how to pronounce "arpeggiated" or whatever. in this case, you nailed the incredible chemistry the four guys in r.e.m. had, the way the guitar, drums, bass, and voice interacted and played off each other in a really special way. i remember reading a story about them mixing their first album, each guy was asking for their parts to be mixed QUIETER, which is totally the opposite of what you'd expect with most bands. and they mixed the vocals relatively low (especially in their 80s stuff) so that they acted as another instrument and not the focus of the song. great video! if you do more r.e.m., i suggest "fall on me," "country feedback," or "e-bow the letter."
This song for me will always be the last song playing on the radio as I left university - the first time I met people from diverse and varied backgrounds and at last felt I might be accepted as a person. Thanks REM!!
Yo! It's so dope to see you vibe so hard on R.E.M., one of my favorite bands of all time. You got to check out Fall On Me, from 1984's album Life's Rich Pageant is a masterpiece. But they have so many great songs. It was killer to see you go through a few at the end. You guys are great. Oh yeah, Man on the Moon IS killer! Love you guys so much. You keep me coming back for more. Peace.
Personally, I think a really fun REM track to check out is their first performance on Letterman when they play So. Central Rain. They had just written it and decided to just play it on their first national TV appearance. And they CRUSH it. Another great slightly deeper cut would be Leave. That's a song that you either love or despise but it's definitely an interesting sound.
@@kev25811 I think I was duped. I'm pretty sure I had bootleg version that actually said it was Radiohead Feat Michael Stipe. I THINK it actually appeared on the A life less ordinary soundtrack but it isn't with Radiohead. It just sounds like radiohead-ish. Trying to find it by googling it I just keep running into dead ends. I pretty sure its on the In Time Rarities Side B bonus disc. Below is the actual version. I bummed myself out with this research to think I was fooled for so long. ua-cam.com/video/JBVIgNKPAaQ/v-deo.html
I have been secretly and eagerly waiting for you guys to do an R.E.M. reaction. I was almost wishing I'd see something off of the IRS years or at least something off of Automatic for the People, but still incredibly glad you guys did R.E.M.
I love that this song is about agent orange, probably the most crushing and long lasting assault Americans unleashed on Vietnam. It is important to think about other people’s plight, and to realize being selfish is what makes this world a shitshow.
Thank You! My father was exposed to Agent Orange in Nam, obviously unbeknownst to him. It has absolutely had an impact on his life. He has never used it an an excuse or crutch, even though we in the family know better. Any joke of a human who sat out of Nam because of bone spurs and family money (drumph) and still has the nerve to talk sh#t on troops deserves a beating. My dad was drafted and gladly went to defend our freedom. He is my all-time hero! Respect to ALL VETS!!!!
It's about the vets unknowingly exposed.to Agent Orange and the horrendous impact it had on their health when they returned. Which the military flatly denied for years, btw. It's always "support the troops" to go to war, but when they come back and need actual support, the war mongers are nowhere to be found. You might also want to react to some earlier 80's music, such as Cure's Caterpillar Girl, or B52's, or Gary Numan (Cars, which is practically an 80's anthem). The early 80's postpunk/new wave is a very different sound. There's also early 80's U2, which is way different from mid-80's, which is different from late 80's U2.
My uncle would tell stories of cooking food in the barrels used to transport the Agent Orange. The government, namely the VA, worked for years to deny that there was any correlation to health issues due to the use of the defoliant... Fun note the US is the only country to still sell commercial defoliants with ingredients similar to Agent Orange with the related health damage! U.S.A.! U.S.A.!
I saw REM in 1986 when they played on a tiny stage at the University of Oregon. It was strange to watch them play such a small venue. They were getting famous from the Life's Rich Pagent album. Guess they liked small shows sometimes.
Arpeggio is the notes of a chord played in succession, either ascending or descending. Think House of the Rising Sun or Color My World or Beethovens Moonlight Sonata.
So glad you guys got around to my favorite band. I discovered them in 82 when they were playing in large bar in Richmond Va and several other times after. There are so many great songs to choose from. Your reaction confirms your good taste in music!
South Central Rain is one of their very best early songs. Radio Free Europe and The One I Love are damn fine songs as well. You probably do need to do like a 2 hour REM reaction. They have a LOT of bangers.
I have to admit that I've never been an REM fan (and probably still won't be), but listening to it through the filter of LiV I actually enjoyed this song. You guys are great at getting me to actually enjoy listening to bands and songs I don't really like, and I think that's awesome
For old R.E.M. (the early stuff) check out Cuyahoga or Talk About The Passion. Both have that signature jangly guitar sound. For newer R.E.M. Man In The Moon or Half a World Away or Country Feedback (so haunting). So many great songs, it's hard to pick a favorite
REM started way back when "Alternative Rock" was still generally just called "College Music."
college radio -- WRAS 88.5 out of Atlanta was where we first heard REM and the like (Album 88 as it was affectionately known)
1980 they started , one I love sounds like 90s but recorded in 1983
@@coopsnz1 Incorrect. Recorded in 1987.
Pre Grunge as in not grunge at all. The difference is how tight REM is with all of their music. REM is more 90's style than 80's, this is true.
REM’s sound was totally 80’s, and adapted and drove the same sound into the 90’s. That’s why they were relevant throughout their career. But it was established in the 80’s. Listen to some bands of the 90’s (even grunge!) emulated this sound. And vice versa. As MONSTER was made soon after Buck had moved to Seattle. No sooner had he moved in , that Kurt and Courtney bought the house next door. And Bucks house was getting visited by MOOKIE BLAYLOCK, Nirvana , mothe Love Bone, Soundgarden and many more. And when you listen to MONSTER, it is their most sonic album ever. Not a coincidence!
Here is my REM suggestion: I strongly suggest that you continue to listen to REM.
Lmbo. Agree
🤣🤣🤣
Sadly it takes them years to get back to a band
But I understand there is so much music to get to
"It's the end of the world as we know it" is the quintessential R.E.M. song but I really like "What's the frequency, Kenneth?".
@@fozzietaylor1111 It's from a strange attack against Dan Rather. He claims that a man punched and kicked him while asking that question.
Huh. That’s interesting lol. I just read up on it.
@@fozzietaylor1111 Its about a schizophrenic that interrupted a live CBS news broadcast insisting he know the frequency of the voices in his head. I watched it live. It was the most bizzare and funny things ive seen
All the way to Reno is another badass song
I would put them in the other order and add everybody hurts
"I've had my fun, now it's time to serve your conscience overseas." and "We are 'agents' of the free." The whole song is about Vietnam, Agent Orange, militarism and the young men who get broken on the rack of somebody else's agenda.
Sounding happy and upbeat for the pure irony of it as the point, I'd imagine?
@@semaj_5022 I wouldnt really say its a happy mood. A little upbeat maybe, but the lyrics and all the faux screaming doesnt really say happy to me
Agent orange 🍊 destroyed my family! Government is crap!
It was ever so.
High on the roof. Thin the blood.
The One I Love has always been my favorite song of theirs. Great reaction as always, guys.
I love that you made me love an R.E.M. song that I had lower on my list simply through your enthusiasm and fresh perspective in listening to it. So happy to find your show. It's great!
I'm glad you guys did R.E.M.
It seems like almost nobody is reacting to R.E.M. these days.
So respect.
It's really amazing to watch the moment when two people "get it" about a band. It happens to everybody with music. but its amazing to see it on a video. So glad to see two dudes "get it" about REM. shiny happy people rules and so does Kate Pierson.
Bang And Blame (1994) has a similar guitar tone to Orange Crush, but it's like a sorrowful, quiet rage sound. I love that song, too; it is 🔥🔥🔥.
Love you guys!!! ❤️❤️❤️
I second this a thousand times!
GOD LOVE that song Monster was a GREAT album
REM ruled the airwaves. Crossed many genre boundaries. Lots of humans liked it. I am a metal head at heart (Megadeth) but loved REM! - Alternative Rock.
More of a modern metal head (like Gojira and Mastodon) but I've always adored REM too
Same here. They got me all jangly.
REM is my favorite band. You touched on how the lyrics and serious themes are juxtaposed with this happy, poppy sound. Somehow, it all works. Glad you guys enjoyed it so much.
Other songs I would consider must-listens for new fans: "Fall on Me" "Man on the Moon" "What's the Frequency, Kenneth?" and "Nightswimming".
R.E.M were special from the get go and remained so for more decades than most. Their music is one of the most inspired and independent you'll find, through more than two decades and a lot of production. Try "Man on the moon", "Gardening at night", "Fall on me", "Driver 8", ....almost endless.
"The One I Love" is one of the all time great guitar riffs, imo. That song just rocks. Definitely check that one out.
Subbed for an R.E.M. marathon! You guys are freaking awesome! So glad you are coming around to R.E.M.
R.E.M are one of my all time favorite bands. They were master's of making incredibly catchy melodies with easily singable hooks while at the same time having really smart lyrical content. They're truly legendary.
Loved that description.
Im 58 and have never listened to R.E.M until this channel but yes i have heard different songs on the radio. I am hooked to Monster Whats the Frequency Kenneth and Night Swimming off another one of their albums. Im so happy you all turned me on to their music thank you! If you get a chance please please please react to Whats the frequency Kenneth! Great song!
Thank you guys so much for giving R.E.M. a listen! ❤ If you do have an R.E.M. marathon, might I suggest Radio Song? There are several other great hits of theirs I could recommend, but you'll probably already know them, whereas Radio Song may be one that you have not heard before.
"I wanna play this"
"we are playing it?"
lmfao
I'd love to see you guys do "The One I Love" next.
First R.E.M. song I ever heard.
I think they'll hate it
@@jgarcia4721 hate is a strong word
R.E.M. is my favorite band it was such a pleasure watching this video I even got a little teary eyed. Thank you.
More R.E.M. for god's sake! They're, like, the Pixies of early 80's, super influential and original in terms of sound, melodies and song structure
I want a Pixies or Sonic Youth reaction, but I'd be perfectly happy with more R.E.M.
They are far better and far more influential than the Pixies could ever have been.
"College Radio" was the term used back then before Alternative or Grunge were a thing.
Yes...the pioneers
It's a anti-war song... "orange crush" is the slang term for Agnet Orange. The opening drum fill (and after the bridge) is meant to mimic machine gun fire. MIcheal Stipe's father had served in the helicopter corps in vietnam (you can hear the helicopters in the breakdown section). REM had a knack of disguising the meaning of their songs (you guys picked out the more upbeat nature of the music). For another song, check out the One I Love which people thought was a love song, but it's actually the opposite when you study the lyrics.
I had no idea! Love the comments section!
There's a long history of popular songs being grossly misinterpreted by the masses. My favorite is Sting telling of how people totally mistook "Every Breath You Take", thinking it's a love song when it's actually about a stalker. He actually encountered people who had used it in their wedding. "Um ... okay .... Well, good luck".
Although the execution by REM is better, when hearing Orange Crush back in 1988 or 1989 the use of the drums to mimic machinegun fire immedeately reminded me to the song S.Fr. Nomenklatura part 1 by Front 242 from 1984 where they did use the drums the same way.
10CC is also very good at misdirection as well.
I love music that makes you have to think.
@Luke As well as fans of Hendrix's Machine Gun.
REM marathon! Do it! In a chronological order, to appreciate the growth and refining their sound over the years. As far as catalogs, theirs is vast.. incredible, so much to discover!
R.E.M. are great and their catalog is extremely varied. For a wide sampling, avoiding the songs you've already mentioned in the video, try "Radio Free Europe," (their first single), "Driver 8," "Monty Got a Raw Deal," "Crush with Eyeliner", and "Überlin."
Props for the MONTY GOT A RAW DEAL recommend. Automatic for the People is one of the greatest albums I've ever heard. SWEETNESS FOLLOWS, right before it is an incredible back to back.
Begin the Begin, Texarkana, Bang and Blame, Circus Envy, I Don't Sleep, I Dream, So. Central Rain, and the epic, LEAVE. all great choices
I would add Oddfellows Local 151, I Believe, Swan Swan Hummingbird, Perfect Circle and Old Man Kensey from the IRS years.
I think Bill Berry is such an underrated drummer and should get name checked more in the pantheon of great drummers. Just a solid in the pocket drummer. Mike Mills is phenomenal bass player who’s melodic bass lines were almost the lead instrument in the band. And Peter Buck could sound like 2 or 3 guitarists playing at once with his use of appregios to fill out the space. I love the early REM stuff. Great band.
Ooo, I have been waiting for someone to react to this song. My fave REM song! ❤️❤️
Michael Stipe will never reach the highest notes but he's so damn good in the middle range. His voice is always haunting.
He doesn't need those high notes, they wouldn't express who he is, and nobody needs to hear high singing full of nothing behind it, if you know what I mean.
Exactly
Said 👍
Hüsker Dü is another band considered to be pioneers of alternative rock. They were a Hardcore Punk band in the early 80's who expanded and changed their sound a lot in just the few short years they were together. They'd be a badass band for you guys to do (along with other Hardcore legends like Black Flag, Minor Threat, more Bad Brains, Misfits, etc.). Here's some suggestions for songs by them:
Something I Learned Today
The Girl Who Lives On Heaven Hill
Chartered Trips
Celebrated Summer
Green Eyes
Divide and Conquer
Don't Want to Know If You Are Lonely
I've noticed they're very impressed by complicated melodic metal bands whereas hardcore and punk bands they seem to the snuff at. I don't think they understand the nuances and styles regarding that kind of music
The Hold Steady, and Soul Asylum, are majorly influenced by Hüsker Dü.
Black Flag influenced Metallica.
The band mellowed out a little over time, and the lead singer (Bob Mould) eventually formed a band called Sugar that might be a better starting point; I'd at least suggest starting the bottom of that (very good) list and going up. A great band with a lot going on, but early on they used all their speed and anger as a shield, so working backwards in time might help bring it into perspective.
That and any excuse to big-up Copper Blue as an album and get a one-in-a-million shot at a reaction to "A Good Idea" which just rips.
Need to throw the Replacements and The Minutemen in with Husker Du 👍
This song is fkn phenomenal. 🤍
"Driver 8" is another one of my favorites.
Get into their beginnings- college radio and pivotal in alternative music!
We've been on the shift to long
Driver 8 ROCKS!!!
The really funny thing about "Shiny happy people" is that it was meant to be ironic & sang in a mocking way. The label told them they needed a happy pop song on their album so they gave them one lol. Thing is, they can't make a bad song even if they try.
And they may have played once or twice afterwards by refused to play it ever again
@@craigros5 must've been after they played it on Sesame Street lol
@@hollyroxy25 now you mention it. Sesame St may have been the only time they agreed to play it.
@@craigros5 the video is hilarious because you can tell they really don't want to be there, especially Michael Stipe. It's like Michael's just thinking "What tf has my life come to" 😂😂
@@hollyroxy25 🤣
One of my favourite bands. Wish I saw them live when I had the chance. Feel like its been years watching this channel waiting for REM. I am happy!
CAN'T GET THERE FROM HERE-R.E.M. IS an absolute must, earlier work that gets overlooked, but is superior music!!!
My favourite song from my favourite REM album. A perfect reflection of my state of mind: life is hard but you make the most of it.
@@mondegreen9709 heres the thing, they are going to overlook this gem because it's not going to get the votes. This song is head and shoulders better than The one I love, which will probably win. Don't get me wrong, I like the song, but c'mon. Can't get there from should be a radio classic and got lost under Driver 8, another great song.
REM pioneered the success of college rock and the rise of young, unique bands on independent labels throughout the 80s. They also led the way for those bands to sign to major labels while maintaining their sound and integrity. They have a massive and lasting influence on American music. They are quite arguably the greatest band in American history.
One of my favorite songs! Such a great song opening. That’s it, I’m going to play this on guitar, as well. Love Orange Crush, Love REM. Don’t Go Back To Rockville is a great one, too. And yes! Check out PAVEMENT, for sure.
Aside from Peter Buck's guitar tone on this song, which is amazing as you guys noted, I am equally impressed with his restraint throughout the song. There is a temptation to go all out with that groove but his guitar lines with that groove is just magical. Amazing song!!
Some folks love them, some hate them. They're so prolific... so many hit songs over their career. They were able to stay consistent and interesting despite changing times and scenes. They have a hit for every mood. Recognizable.
The arpeggiated chords are just chords that are picked separately instead of strumming the notes at once. Classic REM. Check The Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr.
this
Great shout
Also: Siouxsie and the Banshees, and A Perfect Circle.
Peter Buck's signature guitar tone is considered "jangle-y" or "chime-y", and defined a genre that was decidedly not grunge. Michael Stipe's lyrics are more poetry in that it demands a lot of listener interpretation to understand.
Peter Buck and Johnny Marr have similar guitar sound. Two of my favourites.
I've heard their genre described as "jangle-core", as well as "college rock". Also, Chris Funk of The Decemberists got Peter Buck to teach him the Jangle thing for their album "The King is Dead" - beautiful jangly-folky-indy rock!
The cymbal work is by Bill Berry. Berry was known for his great hi-hat grooves. Lots of R.E.M. songs have that driving soulful hi-hat groove. Bill Berry and Mike Mills are one of the best rhythm sections ever.
They're all disciples of The Byrds for the chiming jangling guitars
This song always brings me back - this is the last song I heard before I went into boot camp - it was just released that day for me; had to wait until I finished boot camp to listen to the whole thing - I listened to it thereafter for days on end, and still listen to Green to this day.
Mine was Page/Plant Travelling Riverside Blues.
Now every time I hear that song, my mind goes back to that bus ride.
Never heard this before, Thank you!!!🔥🔥🔥👍👍👍🔥👍🔥🔥👍🔥🔥🔥👍🔥👍🔥👍🔥👍🔥👍🔥👍🔥👍🔥👍🔥🔥🔥👍🔥
Ooo, I've loved this since I was 8 😅 I wish I could hear it for the first time again
@@Katy-sh3ru I feel the same way about my favorite bands.
Mushrooms 🍄 plus a classic album or song Gives you that feeling of hearing it for the 1st time again. That's a ultimate life hack😏.
@@ancientruinsofficial haha, yeah, good shout. There are some it wouldn't work for, though, because I've already enjoyed them that way 😅 sometimes on multiple occasions
this was the first REM song I heard when it first came out.. the overall sound of this song drew me right in.. one of my favourite bands ever since.
R.E.M. is my youth. Everyone after Green carried their influence.
Other REM songs that have the Orange Crush groove:
Begin the Begin
These Days
Finest Worksong
Turn You Inside-out
Gotta go back and listen to the early stuff when they were young and still finding that sound. I recommend "Gardening at Night" but honestly there isn't a bad record.
More REM songs worth a listen are The One I Love, Radio Free Europe, and Man on the Moon
And what’s the frequency, Kenneth 😲
One of my favorite reviews!
Man, I forgot about "The One I Love," that was my favorite of theirs way back when.
Crush with eyeliner
Man on the Moon was about comedian Andy Kauffman and the movie of the same name starring Jim Carrey as Andy came a time after the song.
I absolutely love that you guys mentioned it reminds you of Nirvana and the Chil Peppers, because both of those bands recognize them as influences... how great is music?
As Beavis and Butthead would say " Ugh I think this is college music"
I wish so much we could still access the old B and B music video recordings. They only show the cartoon parts now because of copy write issues or something. That was the best part of the show!
Granted, you're quoting BVS&BTHD to make a statement...JS
@@NunYaO I said it basically because REM is not grunge it’s basically intellectual rock. I am not crapping on REM at all. I just remember the Beavis and Butthead quote because it was funny and true
@@timjames3636 alright, that's cool. I get it.
College rock was the precursor to Alternative rock because early bands like R.E.M were played mostly on independent college radio stations In the 80's They were big influences on alternative who were more influenced by punk and new wave...especially by Velvet Undergrounund as was Grunge.
These Days, Flowers of Guatemala, Radio Free Europe (Hib Tone version), Romance (Night Garden), Fall on Me, What’s The Frequency, Kenneth? and Star Me Kitten are all songs I request that you react to.
"Try Not to Breathe" is a great REM song.
Omg that song ❤
The lyrics are open to several interpretations which make the song so interesting
One of my favorites!!
As is Everybody Hurts 😓
I'm gonna give this song a shot after this video.
"I've got my spine, I've got my orange crush..." They are referring in the lyrics to the nature of Agent orange... the chemical caused spina bifida in the children borne to the people exposed. Many people developed cancer and many had children with deformities and other genetic diseases. It is most definitely a serious song in the guise of a uplifting song. "I've had my fun..." is an ironic statement in that the person who is singing is the narrator and he is having a most terrible time.
Spine refers to courage, not spina bifida. Like, when you call somebody spineless. "I've got my courage, and I have my agent orange (to go to war)."
And "I've had my fun" is not an ironic statement. The song is about youth, particularly high school graduates, leaving their care-free lifestyle as teenagers to go fight in Vietnam. Orange Crush is doing double duty here because it's both a nickname for Agent Orange AND it evokes a child's beverage.
As with many songs the lyrics have multiple meanings.
You guys should really do "The One I Love" by REM.
This is my vote
Agreed!
YES YES YES
Great song
Yeap!!
Thank You! REM is my college band!
So glad you guys enjoyed this. I worry that given the heaviness of a lot of stuff covered in the channel, that more alternative and indie music would be considered bland or too poppy.
Excited to see what's next! Keep it up fellas 🤟🏻
Nightswimming is their best song IMO. Top ballad.
Yep!!!
my fav too
Nightswimming is absolutely beautiful.
omg I'm so late to the party on this but I remember walking into a RECORD STORE in the MALL and this song started playing and got my attention so fast. Of course I bought the CD. ha ha "I'm not sure all these people understand..." SIGH
I was living in Athens during the REM, Pylon, B-52's, Guadalcanal Diary etc., etc. heyday. I got to see them play this album live from the Fox Theatre - yes I'm a lucky man.
That sound you guys are reacting to is a signature Athens vibe rooted in old school rockabilly, that made a comeback during that late 70's / 80's period. Flat Duo Jets was another two piece band that had that signature sound.
I grew up in Memphis and they were huge. I wasn't in Athens at that time, but having worked there for some time, I can honestly hear that Athens sound. From what I heard, they LIVED in my friend's house on Central (Memphis) when this album was recorded.
A lot of great music in Athens back then.
Pylon doesn’t get enough recognition!
@@kevinm4138 I agree and Pylon was really the genesis of the late 70's (1979) and 80's music and art scene in Athens. I was going to art school at the time and can't tell you how many times I saw guys from various bands making concert fliers at the downtown Kinkos. Another great band was Wide Spread Panic. It was a magical time.
22:50 it was REM mainstreaming alt for years that paved the way for things like Nirvana. In other words, REM was the biggest thing in the world for years and years before Nirvana came along
In terms of the song itself, Orange Crush is a reference to the use of Agent Orange during Vietnam. It was created to kill a lot of the thick brush in the jungle, but many kids, families and soldiers became sick from exposure.
my dad died very young due to that crap.
One could argue, that's how this country got to where we are today...100's of 1000's of AO GI's
My cousin had a life of tragedy from Agent Orange, her husband served came home and she thought she was pregnant well it was agent orange in his sperm that mimicked her having a baby but it was cancer growing in her spread up to her brain, a life of hardship and despair paralyzed on her left side and yes her husband left her. Tragic.
The album that made me realize that metal wasn't the only music in the world. To this day, You are the Everything is my favourite song ever.
Can I just say y’all the best reactors on UA-cam and it ain’t close
Great video, I have every REM album, Green is a favourite but the less popular "Up" is a 10/10 and the only one where I never skip a track.
Would love to hear your thoughts on "Up".
Need to check out Rain and She Sells Sanctuary by The Cult for more of that guitar sound
and love off the same album
Fire woman, Edie, love removal machine, so many to choose from
Wild Flower and Little Devil. So many good Cult songs. Also Big Neon Glitter
One of my favorite bands, too often overlooked. Great idea!
Two perfect tracks by the Cult. She Sells Sanctuary is the perfect introduction to them.
There’s a reason you guys have over a million subscribers (myself included). Real and thoughtful reactions and intelligent discussion and reflection. Y’all are the creme de la creme of reaction videos!
We around Denver, and Colorado at large, liked this tune a lot - because......... our Broncos defense was referred to as the Orange Crush for a long time. This tune got a LOT of radio play around here.
I had forgotten about that!
United in Orange
REM’s sound changed so much over 30 years, and yet they remained 100% original. I’ve been a fan since 1988 and here are a few REM suggestions that span the decades. Have fun with discovering more from REM! ❤️
I’m Gonna DJ (2008)
Until the Day is Done
Walk Unafraid (1998)
You’re In the Air
King of Comedy (1994)
Circus Envy
Ignoreland (1992)
Finest Worksong (1988)
Lightnin’ Hopkins
Begin the Begin (1986)
These Days
Just A Touch
9 - 9 (1983)
Perfect Circle
Radio Free Europe
This is REM after they became huge and a bit formulaic... Their earlier albums like Murmur, Fables and The Reconstruction, Lifes Rich Pageant were all unbelievably good, and totally original... Give South Central Rain, Driver 8 or Can't Get There From Here a spin...
Murmur is one of the best albums of all time.
All of those are fantastic. Especially South Central Rain.
We played so much REM at our College radio Station, we had to ban certain songs because they were overplayed.
Formulaic? Gotta disagree there.
I know very little about R.E.M. But, I will take a deep dive now. Thanks for the recommendations.
Great reaction guys, some fantastic older REM songs to check out :Fall on Me, Talk About the Passion and So.Central Rain.
Also, REM is not and has never been a grunge band... They influenced many though.
Yep, Grunge is a subgenre of Alternative Rock. But there is is a lot of Alternative Rock that isn't Grunge.
they were part of a music scene that is dead nowadays called collage radio.
I think REM was an influence to many grunge bands but they were doing their thing long before grunge hit.
Monster got pretty close. It may be closer to Glam Rock, but the grunge influence is definitely prevalent on tracks like I Took Your Name and Circus Envy.
Their frequent producer Scott Litt also produced "Heart Shaped Box" and "All Apologies."
Thanks guys! I loved this today and I LOVE R.E.M.!
It's important to realize that before there was Grunge there was R.E.M... REM came into popularity almost 15 years before the 'Grunge movement' came into popularity. Bands like REM and The B-52's came out of Athens, GA, and were more considered 'alternative' bands.
When Georgia was the cool...
You guys are the best! All genres, you guys break it down and appreciate the music . Please, please, never change.
Arpeggio just means to pick the individual notes of a chord one at a time instead of strumming them all together at the same time. Most of the time the lyrics from REM are impossible to know what the hell they are talking about. I used to think he didn't want you to follow him while he drank his Orange Crush soda. Haha
Yngwie would blow their mind xD
Tina S. Playing Moonlight Sonata would melt their faces🤘
Same here.
this is an excellent example of why your channel is so good; you have great ears and capable of really interesting insights, even when you don't know a lot about the group, or how to pronounce "arpeggiated" or whatever. in this case, you nailed the incredible chemistry the four guys in r.e.m. had, the way the guitar, drums, bass, and voice interacted and played off each other in a really special way. i remember reading a story about them mixing their first album, each guy was asking for their parts to be mixed QUIETER, which is totally the opposite of what you'd expect with most bands. and they mixed the vocals relatively low (especially in their 80s stuff) so that they acted as another instrument and not the focus of the song. great video! if you do more r.e.m., i suggest "fall on me," "country feedback," or "e-bow the letter."
Great reaction. My favourite R.E.M. song is The One I Love. Guitar work is sublime in that song.
I'm subscribing in hopes you do more REM. They were my first concert I went to in 1989.
Definitely request you listen to Nightswimming. One of the most elegant and beautiful songs I know.
Great song. Whole album is awesome!
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Hell yeah, throw in Country Feedback.
This song for me will always be the last song playing on the radio as I left university - the first time I met people from diverse and varied backgrounds and at last felt I might be accepted as a person. Thanks REM!!
Nightswimming deserves a quiet night. AND a reaction from Lost in Vegas.
When I don't have a friend beside me on my sofa, I always got you guys. You're great, keep it up! Cheers from Sweden.👊
Fun fact: Michael Stipe sang the background vocals on the bridge- and the dialogue in the breakdown- through a megaphone.
Yo! It's so dope to see you vibe so hard on R.E.M., one of my favorite bands of all time. You got to check out Fall On Me, from 1984's album Life's Rich Pageant is a masterpiece. But they have so many great songs. It was killer to see you go through a few at the end. You guys are great. Oh yeah, Man on the Moon IS killer! Love you guys so much. You keep me coming back for more. Peace.
Personally, I think a really fun REM track to check out is their first performance on Letterman when they play So. Central Rain.
They had just written it and decided to just play it on their first national TV appearance. And they CRUSH it.
Another great slightly deeper cut would be Leave. That's a song that you either love or despise but it's definitely an interesting sound.
“Leave” Micheal performed with Radiohead is awesome! Very cool
@@samuelnation5300 I cannot find this recording. Link please?
@@kev25811 I think I was duped. I'm pretty sure I had bootleg version that actually said it was Radiohead Feat Michael Stipe. I THINK it actually appeared on the A life less ordinary soundtrack but it isn't with Radiohead. It just sounds like radiohead-ish. Trying to find it by googling it I just keep running into dead ends. I pretty sure its on the In Time Rarities Side B bonus disc. Below is the actual version. I bummed myself out with this research to think I was fooled for so long.
ua-cam.com/video/JBVIgNKPAaQ/v-deo.html
@@samuelnation5300 That performance is so good. I'd kill for Mike Mills' Bass tone.
I have been secretly and eagerly waiting for you guys to do an R.E.M. reaction. I was almost wishing I'd see something off of the IRS years or at least something off of Automatic for the People, but still incredibly glad you guys did R.E.M.
I love that this song is about agent orange, probably the most crushing and long lasting assault Americans unleashed on Vietnam. It is important to think about other people’s plight, and to realize being selfish is what makes this world a shitshow.
Damn, never knew it was about agent orange. That said, this is of my favorite songs from them.
Civilians in North America are struggling with the affects of agent orange too as it was used for decades as an herbicide.
Thank You! My father was exposed to Agent Orange in Nam, obviously unbeknownst to him.
It has absolutely had an impact on his life. He has never used it an an excuse or crutch, even though we in the family know better. Any joke of a human who sat out of Nam because of bone spurs and family money (drumph) and still has the nerve to talk sh#t on troops deserves a beating. My dad was drafted and gladly went to defend our freedom. He is my all-time hero! Respect to ALL VETS!!!!
It's about the vets unknowingly exposed.to Agent Orange and the horrendous impact it had on their health when they returned. Which the military flatly denied for years, btw. It's always "support the troops" to go to war, but when they come back and need actual support, the war mongers are nowhere to be found.
You might also want to react to some earlier 80's music, such as Cure's Caterpillar Girl, or B52's, or Gary Numan (Cars, which is practically an 80's anthem). The early 80's postpunk/new wave is a very different sound. There's also early 80's U2, which is way different from mid-80's, which is different from late 80's U2.
My uncle would tell stories of cooking food in the barrels used to transport the Agent Orange. The government, namely the VA, worked for years to deny that there was any correlation to health issues due to the use of the defoliant... Fun note the US is the only country to still sell commercial defoliants with ingredients similar to Agent Orange with the related health damage! U.S.A.! U.S.A.!
I saw REM in 1986 when they played on a tiny stage at the University of Oregon.
It was strange to watch them play such a small venue. They were getting famous from the Life's Rich Pagent album.
Guess they liked small shows sometimes.
Arpeggio is the notes of a chord played in succession, either ascending or descending. Think House of the Rising Sun or Color My World or Beethovens Moonlight Sonata.
So glad you guys got around to my favorite band. I discovered them in 82 when they were playing in large bar in Richmond Va and several other times after. There are so many great songs to choose from. Your reaction confirms your good taste in music!
Talk about "Perfect Circle." What a beautiful tune.
South Central Rain is one of their very best early songs. Radio Free Europe and The One I Love are damn fine songs as well. You probably do need to do like a 2 hour REM reaction. They have a LOT of bangers.
This song always reminds me of a question my buddy asked me a long time ago.
Him: "What is this song about?"
Me: "Soda."
LOL!
😂
REM - What's the Frequency, Kenneth?
its their best song, and has that signature guitar sound and drum/cymbal play. you guys will love it.
Do some older REM like Driver 8 or (Don't Go Back To) Rockville. A much more Rockabilly feel.
THE EP THEN MURMER ....... IN MY BLOOD
I love that REM has separate GENERATIONS of fans!
DRIVER 8
I have to admit that I've never been an REM fan (and probably still won't be), but listening to it through the filter of LiV I actually enjoyed this song. You guys are great at getting me to actually enjoy listening to bands and songs I don't really like, and I think that's awesome
Really, REM just takes listening. They’re an incredible band.
For old R.E.M. (the early stuff) check out Cuyahoga or Talk About The Passion. Both have that signature jangly guitar sound. For newer R.E.M. Man In The Moon or Half a World Away or Country Feedback (so haunting). So many great songs, it's hard to pick a favorite
One of my favorite bands of all time. Cool to see you guys checking it out.
Give Talking Heads a try! Think you'll really like them.
Oh hell yea
We're on a road to nowhere!
The Great Curve off Remain in Light would be my first choice. That song is fierce!
Crosseyed & Painless 💚 Or Found a Job. The bassline on either of those...*swoon*
Burning Down the House
luv how u have really delved into different styles. new fan.
REM's "Superman". Great example of their harmonies as well as everything you liked about "Orange Crush". Definitely a song turned up in the car
It’s my favorite.
You guys are great. Love your takes especially on songs I know well. Really enjoy your stuff!!!!
“Turn you inside out” is another song on that album you should do next. He’ll, do the whole album, it’s fire.
This is my favorite REM song! Glad you love it too!!
Mother Love Bone - Chloe Dancer/Crown Of Thorns off the Singles soundtrack!
Mother Love Bone !!!
♥️♥️🔥🔥
Love that!!!!!!
You guys are both informative and entertaining. Outstanding!