What makes Crush with Eyeliner by R.E.M. notable?

The single received significant radio play and peaked at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking R.E.M.'s successful foray into the mainstream pop landscape. Additionally, it contributed to the band's reputation as icons of the 1990s alternative scene and solidified their influence on subsequent artists exploring similar sonic territories. By the time 'Crush with Eyeliner' was released in 1995, R.E.M. was transitioning into a mainstream powerhouse following their critical and commercial success with 'Automatic for the People'. This single marked their continued evolution, showcasing a more polished production style while maintaining their alternative roots as they prepared for their next studio album.

How many songs are on Crush with Eyeliner?

Crush with Eyeliner has 4 tracks, running approximately 16 minutes.

Crush with Eyeliner

R.E.M. · 1995

16 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that capture the essence of mid-'90s alternative rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Crush With Eyeliner — This title track encapsulates the album's energetic spirit with its catchy chorus and vivid imagery, showcasing Michael Stipe's unique lyrical style.
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Fall on Me (live) — The live rendition of this classic highlights R.E.M.'s dynamic performance ability, capturing the raw energy that defines their concerts.
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Me in Honey (live) — This track exemplifies the band's knack for blending vulnerability with upbeat instrumentation, making it a standout moment in their live set.
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Finest Worksong (live) — As an iconic song from earlier in their career, its inclusion here connects fans to R.E.M.'s legacy while offering a fresh interpretation through a live lens.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The vibrant title track stands out, but the live tracks disrupt cohesion and overall impact.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving rhythm with layered jangly guitars that create a bright, energetic sound.
The lyrics are introspective and somewhat abstract, delivered with a melodic vocal line that contrasts the upbeat instrumentation.
The single is followed by three live tracks, which shift the focus from the studio production of the lead song to raw performance energy.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The single marked R.E.M.'s successful entry into mainstream pop, following earlier successes.
Themes: mid-'90s alternative· vivid imagery· college rock nostalgia
Moods: Energetic· Introspective
Career context: By the time 'Crush with Eyeliner' was released in 1995, R.E.M. was transitioning into a mainstream powerhouse following their critical and commercial success with 'Automatic for the People'. This single marked their continued evolution, showcasing a more polished production style while maintaining their alternative roots as they prepared for their next studio album.
Stylistic neighbors: The B-52's· The Smiths· Pixies