What does Collapse into Now sound like?

A melodic blend of reflective lyrics and jangly guitars that captures R.E.M.'s signature sound. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock. Start with "Discoverer".

Is Collapse into Now a good place to start with R.E.M.?

Yes, Collapse into Now is recommended as a starting point for new R.E.M. listeners. A melodic blend of reflective lyrics and jangly guitars that captures R.E.M.'s signature sound. Released on March 7, 2011, 'Collapse into Now' was R.E.M.'s fifteenth and final studio album, showcasing their return to form after the more experimental sound of 2008's 'Accelerate.' At this point in their career, the band was experiencing a resurgence in relevance within the alternative rock scene while navigating the changing landscape of music consumption and promotion.

Who is Collapse into Now for?

Collapse into Now works well if you're into steady mid-tempo pacing, reflective moments for contemplation and melodic hooks for singing along.

How many songs are on Collapse into Now?

Collapse into Now has 12 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Collapse into Now

R.E.M. · 2011

40 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop

A melodic blend of reflective lyrics and jangly guitars that captures R.E.M.'s signature sound.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo pacing
reflective moments for contemplation
melodic hooks for singing along
early evening relaxation soundtrack

Maybe skip if you want

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Strong final album showing R.E.M.'s return to form before disbanding.
Themes: Marlon Brando references· post-2000 optimism· reflective college nostalgia
Career context: Released on March 7, 2011, 'Collapse into Now' was R.E.M.'s fifteenth and final studio album, showcasing their return to form after the more experimental sound of 2008's 'Accelerate.' At this point in their career, the band was experiencing a resurgence in relevance within the alternative rock scene while navigating the changing landscape of music consumption and promotion.
Stylistic neighbors: The B-52's· The Smiths· Pixies
If this clicks, go next to: Accelerate — It continues the energetic sound and introspective themes of Collapse into Now.
Sounds like this from elsewhere: The King Is Dead by The Decemberists — Shares a similar folk-rock vibe with reflective storytelling and jangly guitar melodies.

Sky Blue Sky by Wilco — Combines introspective lyrics with a warm, melodic sound that echoes R.E.M.'s style.

Codes and Keys by Death Cab for Cutie — Features melodic hooks and lyrical depth, resonating with the emotional landscape of R.E.M.'s work.