R.E.M.'s trajectory from college-radio darlings to mainstream giants is examined through the lens of their 1991 album Out of Time. The article argues that the band's newfound popularity, while commercially successful, diluted their artistic integrity and signaled a broader shift in alternative rock towards commercial palatability. The album's polished production, reliance on softer instrumentation, and incorporation of orchestral elements, exemplified by the hit single "Losing My Religion," marked a departure from their earlier, rawer sound. This sonic shift, while broadening their audience, alienated some long-time fans who perceived it as a betrayal of their alternative roots. Ultimately, the article suggests that Out of Time represents a turning point, not just for R.E.M., but for alternative rock as a whole, illustrating the compromises and contradictions inherent in achieving mainstream success.
The Yale Review article, "What Happened When R.E.M. Went Mainstream?" by Harmony Tavakoli, meticulously explores the band's trajectory from indie darlings to international superstars, focusing specifically on the period surrounding the release of their 1991 album, Out of Time. Tavakoli argues that R.E.M.'s ascent to the pinnacle of popular music was a complex, multifaceted phenomenon, fraught with internal band tensions and external pressures that ultimately reshaped their artistic identity. She posits that the band's conscious decision to embrace more commercially viable sounds, evidenced by the prominent use of mandolin and orchestral arrangements on Out of Time, was met with both critical acclaim and accusations of selling out from a dedicated fanbase that cherished their earlier, more obscure, and arguably more authentic sound.
The article delves into the band's internal struggles with the implications of their newfound fame. It details the emotional and psychological toll that constant touring and media scrutiny took on the members, particularly Michael Stipe, whose lyrics on Out of Time reflect a growing desire for privacy and a retreat from the public eye. Tavakoli analyzes how the band navigated the paradoxical situation of achieving widespread recognition while simultaneously grappling with the loss of the intimacy and underground credibility that had initially defined them. She highlights the band's attempts to reconcile their artistic integrity with the demands of a global market, suggesting that their subsequent albums, while commercially successful, represented a departure from the raw, experimental energy of their earlier work.
Furthermore, the article examines the broader cultural context of the early 1990s, exploring how the rise of alternative rock and MTV's influence on music consumption contributed to R.E.M.'s mainstream breakthrough. Tavakoli suggests that the band's success was, in part, a product of being in the right place at the right time, capitalizing on a shifting cultural landscape that was increasingly receptive to alternative music. She meticulously dissects the production and reception of Out of Time's hit singles, "Losing My Religion" and "Shiny Happy People," analyzing how these songs, with their distinctive musical and visual aesthetics, resonated with a broad audience and solidified R.E.M.'s place in the popular music canon. Ultimately, Tavakoli's analysis paints a nuanced portrait of a band wrestling with the inherent contradictions of artistic ambition and commercial success, and how the pursuit of one often comes at the expense of the other. The article concludes by suggesting that R.E.M.'s story serves as a cautionary tale for artists navigating the treacherous waters of mainstream appeal, highlighting the enduring tension between artistic integrity and commercial viability.
Summary of Comments ( 13 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43081929
HN commenters discuss the Yale Review article about R.E.M.'s shift to mainstream success. Some felt the author romanticized the band's early indie days and overlooked the artistic merit of their later work, citing examples like "Automatic for the People" as proof of continued creativity. Others agreed with the premise, lamenting the perceived decline in quality after Bill Berry's departure and the adoption of a more generic sound. Several commenters debated the nature of "selling out," acknowledging the financial pressures and creative burnout bands face after years of touring and recording. A few chimed in with personal anecdotes about seeing R.E.M. live during different eras of their career, offering firsthand perspectives on their evolving sound. The overall sentiment leans towards a nuanced view of the band's trajectory, with many acknowledging the complexities of artistic evolution and commercial success.
The Hacker News post titled "What happened when REM went mainstream" links to a Yale Review article about the band R.E.M. and their shift in sound and popularity after signing to Warner Bros. The discussion on Hacker News is relatively brief, with only a handful of comments, so an extensive summary of diverse perspectives isn't possible.
One commenter focuses on the band's early, pre-major label sound, arguing that "Murmur" and other early albums possess a unique sonic quality that is difficult to categorize. They specifically mention the distinct guitar sound, Peter Buck's Rickenbacker, and the overall "jangle-pop" feel. This commenter suggests that the magic of R.E.M.'s early music lay in its undefinable nature.
Another commenter touches on the changing landscape of the music industry and how artists often face challenges maintaining their original sound while achieving greater commercial success. This comment doesn't specifically analyze R.E.M.'s trajectory but offers a broader reflection on the pressures artists face when "going mainstream."
A further comment directly addresses the Yale Review article, praising it for its depth and insight. They also lament the current state of music journalism, suggesting this type of in-depth analysis is rare.
Finally, one commenter offers a personal anecdote about seeing R.E.M. live during their earlier period. They recount being impressed even back then, recognizing the band's potential for broader appeal.
In short, the Hacker News discussion is small but touches upon themes of artistic integrity, the challenges of commercial success, the unique qualities of R.E.M.'s early work, and the appreciation for in-depth music journalism. The comments don't offer deeply conflicting viewpoints or extended debate, but rather provide individual reflections on the band and the linked article.