Complete List Of R.E.M. Albums And Discography

Feature Photo: wonker, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

This Complete List Of R.E.M. Albums And Songs presents the full discography of R.E.M. studio albums. The band R.E.M.was first formed in 1980l The group R.E.M. hails from the area of Athens, Georgia. This complete R.E.M. discography also includes every single R.E.M. live album. All these spectacular R.E.M. albums have been presented below in chronological order. We have also included all original release dates with each R.E.M. album as well as all original R.E.M. album covers. Every album listed below showcases the entire album tracklisting.

R.E.M. STUDIO ALBUMS

Murmur

Released April 12, 1983

Murmur is the debut album by American alternative rock band R.E.M., marking a significant moment in the 1980s indie rock movement. t was critically acclaimed for its unique sound, departing from the then-popular post-punk and new wave, blending a mix of folk, garage rock, and pop influences. Murmur reached number 36 on the Billboard 200 chart, a significant achievement for a debut album from an indie band.

The album was recorded with R.E.M. members Michael Stipe (vocals), Peter Buck (guitar), Mike Mills (bass/backing vocals), and Bill Berry (drums). Mitch Easter and Don Dixon co-produced the album, emphasizing the band’s natural sound. The recording took place at Reflection Sound Studio in Charlotte, North Carolina, during late 1982 and early 1983.

CD Track Listings:

“Radio Free Europe” – 4:06
“Pilgrimage” – 4:30
“Laughing” – 3:57
“Talk About the Passion” – 3:23
“Moral Kiosk” – 3:31
“Perfect Circle” – 3:29
“Catapult” – 3:55
“Sitting Still” – 3:17
“9-9” – 3:03
“Shaking Through” – 4:30
“We Walk” – 3:02
“West of the Fields” – 3:17

Reckoning

Released April 9, 1984

Following the success of their debut, R.E.M.’s second album, Reckoning, continued to explore the band’s evolving sound, characterized by its jangling guitars and obscure lyrics. The album’s themes revolve around loss, confusion, and the search for identity, set against the backdrop of the American South. Reckoning further established R.E.M. as a leading band in alternative rock, peaking at number 27 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Recorded at Reflection Sound Studio in Charlotte, North Carolina, in December 1983, the band returned with producers Mitch Easter and Don Dixon to capture the essence of their live sound. The lineup remained the same with Stipe, Buck, Mills, and Berry.

CD Track Listings:

“Harborcoat” – 3:54
“7 Chinese Bros.” – 4:18
“So. Central Rain (I’m Sorry)” – 3:15
“Pretty Persuasion” – 3:50
“Time After Time (Annelise)” – 3:31
“Second Guessing” – 2:51
“Letter Never Sent” – 2:59
“Camera” – 5:52
“(Don’t Go Back To) Rockville” – 4:32
“Little America” – 2:58

Fables of the Reconstruction

Released June 10, 1985

The third studio album by R.E.M., Fables of the Reconstruction, also known as Fables of the Reconstruction of the Fables, presents a darker, more folk-oriented tone, diving deep into Southern Gothic themes and Americana. The album’s narrative storytelling, cryptic lyrics, and atmospheric soundscapes signify a departure from their previous work, showcasing the band’s versatility and depth in songwriting. It charted at number 28 on the Billboard 200.

This album was the first time R.E.M. recorded outside the United States, opting for Livingston Recording Studios in London. Joe Boyd, known for his work with folk and folk-rock musicians, produced the album, contributing to its distinct sound. The lineup included Stipe, Buck, Mills, and Berry.

CD Track Listings:

“Feeling Gravitys Pull” – 4:51
“Maps and Legends” – 3:10
“Driver 8” – 3:23
“Life and How to Live It” – 4:06
“Old Man Kensey” – 4:08
“Cant Get There from Here” – 3:39
“Green Grow the Rushes” – 3:46
“Kohoutek” – 3:18
“Auctioneer (Another Engine)” – 2:44
“Good Advices” – 3:30
“Wendell Gee” – 3:02

Lifes Rich Pageant

Released July 28, 1986

Lifes Rich Pageant marked a significant turning point in R.E.M.’s career, showcasing a more accessible and mainstream sound while retaining the band’s distinctive jangle pop roots. The album’s lyrics became more directly political, addressing environmental issues and cultural identity. It achieved commercial success, breaking into the top 21 on the Billboard 200 chart and signifying R.E.M.’s growing influence in the rock genre.

The album was recorded at Belmont Mall Studio in Belmont, Indiana, with Don Gehman, known for his work with John Mellencamp, serving as the producer. This marked a departure from the band’s previous collaborations with Mitch Easter and Don Dixon. The lineup remained the same with Stipe, Buck, Mills, and Berry.

CD Track Listings:

“Begin the Begin” – 3:28
“These Days” – 3:24
“Fall on Me” – 2:50
“Cuyahoga” – 4:19
“Hyena” – 2:50
“Underneath the Bunker” – 1:25
“The Flowers of Guatemala” – 3:55
“I Believe” – 3:49
“What If We Give It Away?” – 3:33
“Just a Touch” – 3:00
“Swan Swan H” – 2:42
“Superman” – 2:52

Document

Released September 1, 1987

With Document, R.E.M. solidified their place in the rock mainstream, achieving their first top 10 album on the Billboard 200 chart. The album features some of the band’s most iconic tracks, including “The One I Love” and “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine).” The themes of Document are a continuation of the politically charged lyrics from Lifes Rich Pageant, with a focus on social and environmental concerns.

Document was recorded at Sound Emporium in Nashville, Tennessee, and was the last album the band produced with Don Gehman. Scott Litt took over production duties, beginning a long-standing collaboration with the band that would span several successful albums.

CD Track Listings:

“Finest Worksong” – 3:48
“Welcome to the Occupation” – 2:46
“Exhuming McCarthy” – 3:19
“Disturbance at the Heron House” – 3:32
“Strange” – 2:31
“It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” – 4:05
“The One I Love” – 3:17
“Fireplace” – 3:22
“Lightnin’ Hopkins” – 3:20
“King of Birds” – 4:09
“Oddfellows Local 151” – 5:21

Green

Released November 7, 1988

Green was R.E.M.’s sixth studio album and their first release under Warner Bros. Records, marking a new chapter in the band’s career. The album showcased a greater diversity in sound, experimenting with pop, folk, and rock elements, and featured more prominent use of electric guitar and mandolin. Green reached number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart and included hits like “Stand” and “Orange Crush,” reflecting the band’s evolving musical direction and increased political activism.

The album was recorded at Ardent Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, and Bearsville Studio in Woodstock, New York. Scott Litt continued as the producer, further developing the band’s sound with this more eclectic and electric album.

CD Track Listings:

“Pop Song 89” – 3:04
“Get Up” – 2:39
“You Are the Everything” – 3:41
“Stand” – 3:10
“World Leader Pretend” – 4:17
“The Wrong Child” – 3:36
“Orange Crush” – 3:51
“Turn You Inside-Out” – 4:16
“Hairshirt” – 3:55
“I Remember California” – 5:03
“Untitled” (also known as “11”) – 3:09

Out of Time

Released March 12, 1991

Out of Time is one of R.E.M.’s most significant albums, featuring the massive hit “Losing My Religion,” which became the band’s highest-charting single. The album’s blend of folk, rock, and classical elements, along with guest appearances by artists such as Kate Pierson of The B-52’s, contributed to its unique sound. Out of Time achieved widespread critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart and winning three Grammy Awards.

The album was recorded at Bearsville Studio in Woodstock, New York, and John Keane Studio in Athens, Georgia. Scott Litt produced the album, which continued to showcase the band’s experimentation with different musical styles and instruments, including the mandolin and strings.

CD Track Listings:

“Radio Song” – 4:12
“Losing My Religion” – 4:28
“Low” – 4:55
“Near Wild Heaven” – 3:17
“Endgame” – 3:48
“Shiny Happy People” – 3:45
“Belong” – 4:03
“Half a World Away” – 3:26
“Texarkana” – 3:36
“Country Feedback” – 4:07
“Me in Honey” – 4:06

Automatic for the People

Released October 5, 1992

Automatic for the People is often cited as R.E.M.’s masterpiece, showcasing the band’s ability to craft deeply emotional and introspective music. The album’s themes focus on mortality, loss, and the passage of time, featuring timeless tracks such as “Everybody Hurts” and “Nightswimming.” Automatic for the People received universal acclaim, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart and further solidifying R.E.M.’s status as one of the most influential bands of their time.

The album was primarily recorded at Bearsville Studio in Woodstock, New York, with additional recording at Criteria Recording Studios in Miami, Florida. Scott Litt produced the album, which featured a more subdued and introspective sound, with extensive use of string arrangements by John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin fame.

CD Track Listings:

“Drive” – 4:31
“Try Not to Breathe” – 3:50
“The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite” – 4:06
“Everybody Hurts” – 5:17
“New Orleans Instrumental No. 1” – 2:13
“Sweetness Follows” – 4:19
“Monty Got a Raw Deal” – 3:17
“Ignoreland” – 4:24
“Star Me Kitten” – 3:15
“Man on the Moon” – 5:13
“Nightswimming” – 4:16
“Find the River” – 3:50

Monster

Released September 27, 1994

Monster represented a bold departure from the introspective and somber tone of R.E.M.’s previous two albums, showcasing a return to a more rock-oriented sound. With distorted guitars and a grungier, more aggressive style, the album addressed themes of celebrity, identity, and love in the modern age. Monster achieved commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, and featured hits like “What’s the Frequency, Kenneth?” and “Bang and Blame.”

The album was recorded at various locations, including Crossover Soundstage in Atlanta, Georgia, and Criteria Recording Studios in Miami, Florida. Scott Litt, who had become a regular collaborator with R.E.M., produced the album, helping to craft its raw, live sound.

CD Track Listings:

“What’s the Frequency, Kenneth?” – 4:00
“Crush with Eyeliner” – 4:39
“King of Comedy” – 3:40
“I Don’t Sleep, I Dream” – 3:27
“Star 69” – 3:07
“Strange Currencies” – 3:52
“Tongue” – 4:13
“Bang and Blame” – 5:30
“I Took Your Name” – 4:02
“Let Me In” – 3:28
“Circus Envy” – 4:15
“You” – 4:54

New Adventures in Hi-Fi

Released September 9, 1996

New Adventures in Hi-Fi is seen as one of R.E.M.’s most ambitious projects, blending the energy of their live performances with the intimacy of studio creativity. The album encompasses a wide range of styles and moods, reflecting the band’s experiences during the exhaustive touring schedule that accompanied their previous album, Monster. It reached number two on the Billboard 200 chart and includes tracks like “E-Bow the Letter” and “Bittersweet Me.”

The recording took place in various locations, including soundchecks and performances during the Monster tour, as well as sessions at Bad Animals Studio in Seattle, Washington. Scott Litt continued his role as producer, capturing the spontaneous and eclectic nature of the band’s sound during this period.

CD Track Listings:

“How the West Was Won and Where It Got Us” – 4:31
“The Wake-Up Bomb” – 5:08
“New Test Leper” – 5:26
“Undertow” – 5:09
“E-Bow the Letter” – 5:24
“Leave” – 7:17
“Departure” – 3:29
“Bittersweet Me” – 4:06
“Be Mine” – 5:33
“Binky the Doormat” – 5:01
“Zither” – 2:33
“So Fast, So Numb” – 4:12
“Low Desert” – 3:31
“Electrolite” – 4:05

Up

Released October 27, 1998

Following the departure of drummer Bill Berry, Up marked a significant transition for R.E.M., both in terms of their sound and as a band. The album incorporates electronic instruments and experimental sounds, moving away from the straightforward rock approach of previous records. Up‘s introspective and melancholic tone reflects the band’s uncertainty during this period of change. It reached number three on the Billboard 200 chart.

The album was recorded at Toast Studio in San Francisco, California, and John Keane Studio in Athens, Georgia. Pat McCarthy co-produced the album with R.E.M., helping to navigate the band’s new direction as a trio.

CD Track Listings:

“Airportman” – 4:12
“Lotus” – 4:30
“Suspicion” – 5:36
“Hope” – 5:01
“At My Most Beautiful” – 3:34
“The Apologist” – 4:30
“Sad Professor” – 4:02
“You’re in the Air” – 5:22
“Walk Unafraid” – 4:33
“Why Not Smile” – 4:02
“Daysleeper” – 3:39
“Diminished” – 6:01
“Parakeet” – 4:11
“Falls to Climb” – 5:06

Reveal

Released May 14, 2001

Reveal is characterized by its lush, pop-oriented sound, marked by a significant use of synthesizers and production effects, showcasing a brighter, more optimistic tone compared to its predecessor. The album includes the hit “Imitation of Life” and other notable tracks like “All the Way to Reno (You’re Gonna Be a Star).” Reveal received positive reviews and reached number six on the Billboard 200 chart.

The recording took place in Miami, Florida, and Vancouver, British Columbia, with Pat McCarthy returning as co-producer alongside R.E.M. The band continued to explore new textures and sounds, further evolving their musical style in the post-Berry era.

CD Track Listings:

“The Lifting” – 4:39
“I’ve Been High” – 3:25
“All the Way to Reno (You’re Gonna Be a Star)” – 4:43
“She Just Wants to Be” – 5:22
“Disappear” – 4:11
“Saturn Return” – 4:55
“Beat a Drum” – 4:21
“Imitation of Life” – 3:57
“Summer Turns to High” – 3:31
“Chorus and the Ring” – 4:31
“I’ll Take the Rain” – 5:51
“Beachball” – 4:14

Around the Sun

Released October 4, 2004

Around the Sun features a contemplative and mellow sound, with lyrics reflecting political and personal themes. Despite its mixed critical reception, the album includes standout tracks like “Leaving New York” and “Aftermath.” It reached number 13 on the Billboard 200 chart.

The album was recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, and at the band’s own studio in Athens, Georgia. Pat McCarthy produced the album, continuing his collaboration with the band.

CD Track Listings:

“Leaving New York” – 4:49
“Electron Blue” – 4:12
“The Outsiders” (feat. Q-Tip) – 4:13
“Make It All Okay” – 3:43
“Final Straw” – 4:06
“I Wanted to Be Wrong” – 4:34
“Wanderlust” – 3:03
“Boy in the Well” – 5:22
“Aftermath” – 3:52
“High Speed Train” – 5:03
“The Worst Joke Ever” – 3:37
“The Ascent of Man” – 4:07
“Around the Sun” – 4:28

Accelerate

Released April 1, 2008

With Accelerate, R.E.M. returned to a more stripped-down, rock-oriented sound, reminiscent of their earlier work. The album was well-received for its energy and concise songwriting, featuring tracks like “Supernatural Superserious” and “Hollow Man.” Accelerate marked a comeback of sorts, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart.

The album was recorded at The Olympia Theatre, Dublin, during “working rehearsals,” and at various studios in the United States. Jacknife Lee co-produced the album with R.E.M., bringing a fresh perspective to the band’s sound.

CD Track Listings:

“Living Well Is the Best Revenge” – 3:11
“Man-Sized Wreath” – 2:32
“Supernatural Superserious” – 3:23
“Hollow Man” – 2:39
“Houston” – 2:05
“Accelerate” – 3:33
“Until the Day Is Done” – 4:08
“Mr. Richards” – 3:46
“Sing for the Submarine” – 4:50
“Horse to Water” – 2:18
“I’m Gonna DJ” – 2:07

Collapse into Now

Released March 7, 2011

Collapse into Now is R.E.M.’s final studio album, blending elements of rock, pop, and balladry, encapsulating the band’s diverse musical legacy. The album features collaborations with notable artists, including Patti Smith and Eddie Vedder, and includes tracks like “Überlin” and “Oh My Heart.” It received positive reviews for its craftsmanship and was seen as a fitting conclusion to R.E.M.’s career, peaking at number five on the Billboard 200 chart.

The album was recorded in Berlin, Nashville, and New Orleans, with Jacknife Lee returning as co-producer alongside the band. Collapse into Now stands as a testament to R.E.M.’s enduring influence and creativity in the music world.

CD Track Listings:

“Discoverer” – 3:31
“All the Best” – 2:48
“Überlin” – 4:15
“Oh My Heart” – 3:21
“It Happened Today” (feat. Eddie Vedder) – 3:49
“Every Day Is Yours to Win” – 3:26
“Mine Smell Like Honey” – 3:12
“Walk It Back” – 3:24
“Alligator_Aviator_Autopilot_Antimatter” (feat. Peaches and Lenny Kaye) – 2:45
“That Someone Is You” – 1:44
“Me, Marlon Brando, Marlon Brando and I” – 3:03
“Blue” (feat. Patti Smith) – 5:46

R.E.M. LIVE ALBUMS

R.E.M. Live

Released October 16, 2007

R.E.M. Live is the first official live album from R.E.M., capturing the energy and spirit of the band’s performances during their 2005 world tour in support of the Around the Sun album. This live album offers a broad overview of the band’s extensive catalog, featuring classic hits, deep cuts, and newer material, showcasing the band’s versatility and enduring appeal as live performers. The album peaked at number 129 on the Billboard 200 chart, highlighting the band’s continued relevance and the strong loyalty of their fan base.

The concert was recorded at The Point Theatre in Dublin, Ireland, on February 26 and 27, 2005. The live performance captures the dynamic interaction between the band members and their audience, featuring Michael Stipe’s charismatic lead vocals, Peter Buck’s jangly guitar riffs, Mike Mills’ harmony vocals and multi-instrumental talents, and Bill Rieflin filling in as the drummer.

CD Track Listings:

“I Took Your Name” – 4:06
“So Fast, So Numb” – 4:40
“Boy in the Well” – 5:14
“Cuyahoga” – 4:36
“Everybody Hurts” – 6:26
“Electron Blue” – 4:12
“Bad Day” – 4:24
“The Ascent of Man” – 4:07
“The Great Beyond” – 4:49
“Leaving New York” – 4:47
“Orange Crush” – 4:26
“I Wanted to Be Wrong” – 5:02
“Final Straw” – 4:09
“Imitation of Life” – 3:56
“The One I Love” – 3:24
“Walk Unafraid” – 4:37
“Losing My Religion” – 4:54
“What’s the Frequency, Kenneth?” – 4:09
“Drive” – 5:37
“(Don’t Go Back To) Rockville” – 4:38
“I’m Gonna DJ” – 2:22
“Man on the Moon” – 6:47

Live at the Olympia

Released October 27, 2009

Live at the Olympia is a live album by R.E.M., featuring recordings from the band’s “working rehearsals” at The Olympia Theatre in Dublin, Ireland, over five nights in July 2007. Unlike traditional live albums, this set captures the band testing new material, revisiting seldom-played songs, and refining their live sound in front of an intimate audience. This unique approach offers a rare glimpse into the band’s creative process and their interaction with fans during the development of the Accelerate album. The album showcases a wide array of R.E.M.’s repertoire, including deep cuts and fan favorites, highlighting the band’s rich musical history and versatility.

CD Track Listings:

Disc 1:

“Living Well Is the Best Revenge” – 3:12
“Second Guessing” – 2:57
“Letter Never Sent” – 3:16
“Staring Down the Barrel of the Middle Distance” – 3:07
“Disturbance at the Heron House” – 3:42
“Mr. Richards” – 3:22
“Houston” – 2:11
“New Test Leper” – 5:27
“Cuyahoga” – 4:22
“Electrolite” – 3:51
“Man-Sized Wreath” – 2:34
“So. Central Rain” – 3:30
“On the Fly” – 5:01
“Maps and Legends” – 3:08
“Sitting Still” – 3:24
“Driver 8” – 3:25
“Horse to Water” – 2:18
“I’m Gonna DJ” – 2:21
“Circus Envy” – 4:15
“These Days” – 3:56

Disc 2:

“Drive” – 4:44
“Feeling Gravity’s Pull” – 5:35
“Until the Day Is Done” – 4:05
“Accelerate” – 3:33
“Auctioneer (Another Engine)” – 3:01
“Little America” – 2:50
“1,000,000” – 3:26
“Disguised” – 3:24
“The Worst Joke Ever” – 3:38
“Welcome to the Occupation” – 2:48
“Carnival of Sorts (Box Cars)” – 4:15
“Harborcoat” – 4:18
“Wolves, Lower” – 4:23
“I’ve Been High” – 3:28
“Kohoutek” – 3:27
“West of the Fields” – 3:17
“Pretty Persuasion” – 3:57
“Romance” – 3:27
“Gardening at Night” – 3:44

Unplugged: The Complete 1991 and 2001 Sessions

Unplugged 1991/2001: The Complete Sessions (2CD)

Released May 19, 2014

Unplugged: The Complete 1991 and 2001 Sessions is a live album by R.E.M., compiling their performances from the MTV Unplugged series. The album features two distinct sessions: one from 1991, amidst the band’s early ’90s commercial peak, and the other from 2001, reflecting their later, more introspective work. This collection showcases the band’s ability to strip down their songs to their core, revealing the strength of their songwriting and the depth of their music. The acoustic arrangements provide a new perspective on familiar tracks, highlighting the band’s versatility and the emotive power of Michael Stipe’s vocals.