Document
R.E.M. · 1987
67 min · 17 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop
An urgent blend of jangly guitars and politically charged lyrics that encapsulate late '80s alternative rock.
Why this album works
- Best for
- urgent rhythms for active listening politically charged lyrical engagement dynamic progression with live energy
- Context
- Released on September 1, 1987, 'Document' marked R.E.M.'s fifth studio album and their first to achieve significant commercial success. Following the critical acclaim of 'Lifes Rich Pageant,' this album propelled them into mainstream recognition, featuring their signature sound and socially conscious themes.
- If you like
- alternative rock, folk rock, jangle pop
Document is an album by R.E.M., released in 1987. An urgent blend of jangly guitars and politically charged lyrics that encapsulate late '80s alternative rock. 'Document' was notable for its political commentary during a time of social upheaval, charting at No. 10 on the Billboard 200. The album's hit single, 'The One I Love,' became a defining song for the band, receiving extensive radio play and helping solidify their place in the alternative rock scene. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Document sound like?
An urgent blend of jangly guitars and politically charged lyrics that encapsulate late '80s alternative rock. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.
What makes Document by R.E.M. notable?
'Document' was notable for its political commentary during a time of social upheaval, charting at No. 10 on the Billboard 200. The album's hit single, 'The One I Love,' became a defining song for the band, receiving extensive radio play and helping solidify their place in the alternative rock scene. Released on September 1, 1987, 'Document' marked R.E.M.'s fifth studio album and their first to achieve significant commercial success. Following the critical acclaim of 'Lifes Rich Pageant,' this album propelled them into mainstream recognition, featuring their signature sound and socially conscious themes.
Who is Document for?
Document works well if you're into urgent rhythms for active listening, politically charged lyrical engagement and dynamic progression with live energy.
How many songs are on Document?
Document has 17 tracks, running approximately 67 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Finest Worksong Standout 3:50
- 2 Welcome to the Occupation Standout 2:48
- 3 Exhuming McCarthy 3:21
- 4 Disturbance at the Heron House 3:34
- 5 Strange 2:33
- 6 It’s the End of the World as We Know It (and I Feel Fine) 4:06
- 7 The One I Love Standout 3:17
- 8 Fireplace 3:24
- 9 Lightnin’ Hopkins 3:21
- 10 King of Birds 4:10
- 11 Oddfellows Local 151 5:22
- 12 Finest Worksong (other mix) 3:47
- 13 Last Date 2:16
- 14 The One I Love (live) 4:06
- 15 Time After Time Etc. (live) 8:22
- 16 Disturbance at the Heron House (live) 3:26
- 17 Finest Worksong (lengthy club mix) 5:52
Release Date
September 1, 1987
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
67 min 43 sec
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