Album Information:

About R.E.M.:

R.E.M. was an American rock band that achieved widespread success and critical acclaim in the 1980s and 1990s. The band's original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Michael Stipe, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and drummer Bill Berry.

The band was formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980, and initially performed at local bars and clubs. They soon caught the attention of indie label IRS Records, and in 1982 they released their debut album, 'Murmur.' The album was a critical success, and helped establish the band as one of the leaders of the burgeoning alternative rock movement.

Over the next few years, R.E.M. continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including 'Reckoning' (1984), 'Fables of the Reconstruction' (1985), and 'Lifes Rich Pageant' (1986). Their music was characterized by jangly guitars, catchy melodies, and thoughtful lyrics that often addressed political and social issues.

In 1987, R.E.M. signed to major label Warner Bros., and released their breakthrough album 'Document.' The album featured the hit single 'The One I Love,' which became the band's first top 10 hit. The album also marked the beginning of R.E.M.'s commercial success, and they continued to release hit albums throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s.

In 1991, R.E.M. released their eighth album, 'Out of Time,' which included the hit songs 'Losing My Religion' and 'Shiny Happy People.' The album was a huge commercial success, and won three Grammy Awards, including Best Alternative Music Album.

R.E.M. continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, including 'Automatic for the People' (1992), 'Monster' (1994), and 'New Adventures in Hi-Fi' (1996). However, in 1997, drummer Bill Berry left the band, and R.E.M. continued as a three-piece.

The band released several more albums over the next decade, including 'Reveal' (2001), 'Around the Sun' (2004), and 'Accelerate' (2008). In 2011, after over 30 years together, R.E.M. announced that they were disbanding.

Throughout their career, R.E.M. was known for their thoughtful lyrics, catchy hooks, and innovative approach to music. They helped define the sound of alternative rock in the 1980s and 1990s, and their influence is still felt in the music of many contemporary artists.

About the album Automatic For the People:

Automatic For the People is the eighth studio album by the American alternative rock band R.E.M. It was released on October 5, 1992, by the Warner Bros. Records label. The album is considered one of the band's most iconic and successful works, having sold over 18 million copies worldwide. It was also critically acclaimed upon its release and has since been lauded as one of the best albums of the 90s.

The album, which spans 12 tracks, is characterized by its melancholic and introspective tone. It deals with themes of mortality, loss, and human relationships, reflecting on both the personal and societal experiences of its creators. Despite the weighty themes, the album is also regarded for its beauty and sophistication, which is conveyed through lush orchestration, intricate production, and poignant lyricism.

The album opens with the haunting 'Drive,' featuring lead singer Michael Stipe's whispery vocals over a minimalistic arrangement of piano chords and brushed drums. The following track, 'Try Not To Breathe,' is a slow, introspective ballad that addresses thoughts of suicide and the fragility of life. 'The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite,' one of the album's most uplifting tracks, is a playful take on the traditional folk song 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight,' featuring a cheerful melody and tempo.

'Hungry Like The Wolf' features a melancholic piano melody and Stipe's delicate vocal delivery—a tribute to River Phoenix, who died tragically shortly before the album's release. 'Man on the Moon,' which became an instant classic, is a tribute to artist and comedian Andy Kaufman, who Stipe saw as a symbol of individuality and rebellion against societal norms.

The album concludes with 'Find The River,' a gentle and reflective song that revisits themes of loss and mortality. Its final lyrics, 'All of this is coming your way,' are particularly poignant, suggesting that no one is immune to the challenges and uncertainties of life.

Overall, Automatic For The People is a powerful and emotional album that reflects on the human experience. Its gorgeous, intricate arrangements and poetically meaningful lyrics make this record a beloved classic in the world of alternative rock.

Members:

Sure, here are the key members of R.E.M. along with their complete biographies:

1) Michael Stipe - Lead Vocals: Michael Stipe was born on January 4, 1960, in Decatur, Georgia, USA. He is the lead vocalist and lyricist of R.E.M, which he co-founded in 1980. Stipe has been an active musician for over four decades and has released several solo projects as well. His distinctive vocal style and introspective lyrics played a significant role in shaping R.E.M's unique sound and contributed to the band's success. Stipe is also a noted photographer and visual artist.

2) Peter Buck - Guitar: Peter Buck was born on December 6, 1956, in Berkeley, California, USA. He is the lead guitarist and co-founder of R.E.M. Buck's distinctive jangly guitar sound played a significant role in defining R.E.M's sound. Buck has also played on several other artists' albums and has released several solo projects.

3) Mike Mills - Bass and Keyboards: Mike Mills was born on December 17, 1958, in Orange County, California, USA. He is the bassist, keyboardist, and backing vocalist of R.E.M. Mills joined the band shortly after its formation and has been a critical member ever since. His harmony vocals provided a unique texture to R.E.M's sound, and his keyboard and bass work were vital to the band's overall sound.

4) Bill Berry - Drums: Bill Berry was born on July 31, 1958, in Duluth, Minnesota, USA. He is the drummer and co-founder of R.E.M. Berry provided the band with a solid, driving rhythm that anchored the music. Berry also contributed to the band's songwriting and played other instruments, including piano and bass.

Together, these four members formed the core of R.E.M. for over two decades, producing several critically acclaimed albums and influencing numerous artists.

Track List for Automatic For the People:

Sure! Here are all the tracks in the album Automatic For the People by R.E.M. in order with their play time and descriptions:

1. Drive (4:31) - The opening song of the album, ‘Drive’ is an upbeat track with a strong guitar riff and catchy chorus. It is a criticism of the celebrity culture and the loss of privacy that comes with it.

2. Try Not to Breathe (3:50) - A slower pace song, ‘Try Not to Breathe’ is about a dying person who reflects on their life as they try to hold on to the last bit of life. It is a poignant and emotional track.

3. The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite (4:06) - A playful song with an upbeat tempo, ‘The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite’ is inspired by the song ‘The Lion Sleeps Tonight’. It features a catchy melody with nonsensical lyrics and a whimsical sound.

4. Everybody Hurts (5:20) - Arguably the most well-known song from the album, ‘Everybody Hurts’ is a beautifully sad song about enduring difficult times. The lyrics are relatable and the music is soothing, making it a comforting track.

5. New Orleans Instrumental No. 1 (2:15) - A short, instrumental piece that is a tribute to R.E.M.’s hometown of Athens, Georgia. It features a strong mandolin melody and creates a dreamy, nostalgic atmosphere.

6. Sweetness Follows (4:21) - Another melancholic song, ‘Sweetness Follows’ reflects on the pain and sorrow that life can bring. The music is hauntingly beautiful and the lyrics are poignant and emotional.

7. Monty Got a Raw Deal (3:17) - A faster-paced track, ‘Monty Got a Raw Deal’ tells the story of actor Montgomery Clift and the difficulties he faced in Hollywood. The song features a strong guitar riff and energetic drum beats.

8. Ignoreland (4:28) - A politically charged song, ‘Ignoreland’ criticizes the state of America during the early 90s. The music is darker and more aggressive than some of the other tracks in the album, with a strong guitar-driven sound.

9. Star Me Kitten (3:16) - A slow, dreamy track, ‘Star Me Kitten’ features a beautiful piano melody and soft, whispered vocals. The lyrics are cryptic and open to interpretation.

10. Man on the Moon (5:13) - Another well-known song from the album, ‘Man on the Moon’ celebrates the life of comedian Andy Kaufman, who was known for his eccentric and offbeat performances. The song has a catchy chorus and a fun, energetic sound.

11. Nightswimming (4:16) - A hauntingly beautiful ballad, ‘Nightswimming’ is about the innocence of youth and the freedom of indulging in a midnight swim. The piano-driven track is emotional and intimate.

12. Find the River (3:50) - The closing track of the album, ‘Find the River’ is a gorgeous ballad about the cyclical nature of life and the importance of embracing change. The music is dreamy and the lyrics are inspirational, making it a fitting ending to the album.

Discography for R.E.M.:

Here is a complete discography for the band R.E.M. in chronological order, including all albums, all singles, and all other releases with their respective release dates:

Albums:
1. Murmur (1983)
2. Reckoning (1984)
3. Fables of the Reconstruction (1985)
4. Lifes Rich Pageant (1986)
5. Document (1987)
6. Green (1988)
7. Out of Time (1991)
8. Automatic for the People (1992)
9. Monster (1994)
10. New Adventures in Hi-Fi (1996)
11. Up (1998)
12. Reveal (2001)
13. Around the Sun (2004)
14. Accelerate (2008)
15. Collapse into Now (2011)

Singles (US/UK release):
- Radio Free Europe (1981/1983)
- Talk About the Passion (1983/1983)
- So. Central Rain (1984/1984)
- (Don't Go Back To) Rockville (1984/1984)
- Can't Get There from Here (1985/1985)
- Driver 8 (1985/1985)
- Fall on Me (1986/1986)
- Superman (1986/1986)
- The One I Love (1987/1987)
- It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine) (1987/1987)
- Finest Worksong (1988/1988)
- Orange Crush (1988/1989)
- Stand (1989/1988)
- Pop Song 89 (1989/1989)
- Get Up (1991/1991)
- Losing My Religion (1991/1991)
- Shiny Happy People (1991/1991)
- Near Wild Heaven (1991/1991)
- Radio Song (1991/1991)
- Drive (1992/1992)
- Man on the Moon (1992/1992)
- Everybody Hurts (1993/1993)
- Nightswimming (1993/1993)
- Find the River (1993/1994)
- What's the Frequency, Kenneth? (1994/1994)
- Bang and Blame (1994/1994)
- Star 69 (1995/1995)
- Strange Currencies (1995/1995)
- E-Bow the Letter (1996/1996)
- Bittersweet Me (1996/1996)
- Electrolite (1997/1997)
- How the West Was Won and Where It Got Us (1997/1997)
- Daysleeper (1998/1998)
- Lotus (1998/1999)
- At My Most Beautiful (1999/1999)
- Suspicion (2003/2003)

Other releases:
- Chronic Town EP (1982)
- Dead Letter Office (1987)
- Eponymous (1988)
- The Best of R.E.M. (1991)
- In Time: The Best of R.E.M. 1988–2003 (2003)