Album Info
| Artist: | R.E.M. |
| Album: | Lifes Rich Pageant |
| Released: | Australia, 1986 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Begin The Begin | 3:24 |
| A2 | These Days | 3:21 |
| A3 | Fall On Me | 2:49 |
| A4 | Cuyahoga | 4:17 |
| A5 | Hyena | 2:48 |
| A6 | Underneath The Bunker | 1:24 |
| B1 | The Flowers Of Guatemala | 3:53 |
| B2 | I Believe | 3:32 |
| B3 | What If We Give It Away? | 3:31 |
| B4 | Just A Touch | 2:56 |
| B5 | Swan Swan H | 2:39 |
| B6 | Superman | 2:50 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
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- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
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- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
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- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
R.E.M.'s fourth studio album, "Lifes Rich Pageant," released in 1986, marks a significant turning point in the band's career. Known for their enigmatic lyrics and jangly guitar sound, R.E.M. had already established a dedicated fan base with their previous albums. However, "Lifes Rich Pageant" saw the band taking a more polished and accessible approach, which helped them reach a broader audience.
The album was produced by Don Gehman, who was known for his work with John Mellencamp. Gehman's influence is evident in the cleaner production and more pronounced vocal presence of lead singer Michael Stipe. This was a departure from the murkier sound of their earlier work, where Stipe's vocals were often buried in the mix. On "Lifes Rich Pageant," Stipe's voice is clear and confident, allowing the band's lyrical themes to shine through more effectively.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Fall on Me," which became one of R.E.M.'s most enduring songs. With its catchy melody and environmental message, "Fall on Me" exemplifies the band's ability to blend pop sensibilities with thoughtful lyrics. Another notable track is "Cuyahoga," which addresses themes of environmental degradation and American history, showcasing the band's growing interest in social and political issues.
"Begin the Begin" opens the album with a powerful statement, featuring a driving rhythm and assertive lyrics that set the tone for the rest of the record. "These Days" follows with an upbeat tempo and anthemic chorus, further highlighting the band's evolution towards a more direct and energetic sound. "I Believe" is another highlight, with its banjo intro and optimistic lyrics, reflecting the band's diverse musical influences and willingness to experiment.
Critically, "Lifes Rich Pageant" was well-received, with many reviewers praising the band's maturation and the album's more accessible sound. It was seen as a bridge between the band's early, more obscure work and their later mainstream success. The album's success helped R.E.M. gain a larger following and set the stage for their subsequent breakthrough with "Document" and "Green."
While "Lifes Rich Pageant" did not win any major awards at the time of its release, it has since been recognized as a pivotal album in R.E.M.'s discography. It is often cited as a favorite among fans and critics alike, and its influence can be seen in the alternative rock movement of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
The album's title, "Lifes Rich Pageant," is a nod to a line from the 1964 film "A Shot in the Dark," reflecting the band's penchant for quirky and obscure references. This sense of humor and intellectual curiosity is a hallmark of R.E.M.'s work, and it is evident throughout the album.
In terms of cultural significance, "Lifes Rich Pageant" represents a moment when R.E.M. began to engage more directly with social and political themes, a trend that would continue in their later work. The album's focus on environmental issues, in particular, was ahead of its time and resonated with listeners who were becoming increasingly aware of such concerns.
Overall, "Lifes Rich Pageant" is a crucial album in R.E.M.'s catalog, marking their transition from college radio darlings to mainstream rock icons. Its blend of catchy melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and polished production make it a standout record that continues to be celebrated for its artistic and cultural impact.