REM: Live in France

Until the break through in 1991 with their seventh album “Out of Time” inclusive “Losing My Religion” with what Michael Stipe and his band were catapulted in the rock olymp it was a long way for R.E.M.. Founded as “Twisted Kites” the bands started in Athens/Georgia and their alternative rock which they put their emphasis on early, for example for Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain.

Often enough it was said: R.E.M. are history, dead, done. However then they released a new album and showed more changeability than any other band. Now its been like that for 30 years. And that is also how long R.E.M have been touring as complete artwork all along around the globe. The term “Frontman” is self-explanatory to everyone who visits a R.E.M concert. The charismatic singer catches all eyes on him, no matter if he dances, bends, pantomimes, high fives the fans or just sings. Stipe & Co know the business. They only know too well that the last impression is the remaining. Also in Rio de Janeiro they put together a show for the encore which was in a class of its own. R.E.M. for 30 minutes in their top form. Of course with the hits “Losing my religion”, “Man on The Moon” and “What’s The Frequency Kenneth”. It doesn’t get any better than that!

 

 

Recorded live at Studio 104, La Plaine Saint Denis, Paris, March 21, 2008