Is Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011 a good place to start with R.E.M.?

Yes, Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011 is recommended as a starting point for new R.E.M. listeners. A sweeping retrospective that captures R.E.M.'s evolution through jangly guitars, poignant lyrics, and a blend of melancholy and hope. Released in 2011, this compilation marked R.E.M.'s final album before their breakup, serving as a reflective overview of their influential career spanning nearly three decades. It includes tracks from their debut 'Murmur' to their later work, encapsulating the band's journey from college rock pioneers to mainstream icons.

How many songs are on Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011?

Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011 has 40 tracks, running approximately 152 minutes.

Released 15 years ago this November

Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011

Q: Who is Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011 for?

Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011 works well if you're into nostalgic reflections on past, dynamic flow with peaks and introspective listening experience.

R.E.M. · 2011

152 min · 40 tracks · alternative rock

A sweeping retrospective that captures R.E.M.'s evolution through jangly guitars, poignant lyrics, and a blend of melancholy and hope.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Radio Free Europe Start here — As R.E.M.'s debut single, this track captures the raw energy of their early sound with jangly guitars and cryptic lyrics, setting the stage for their future success.
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Losing My Religion — This iconic song marked a turning point for R.E.M., blending folk influences with pop sensibilities and becoming their highest-charting hit, resonating widely across generations.
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Everybody Hurts — A poignant anthem of empathy and support, this track underscores R.E.M.'s ability to connect deeply with listeners during challenging times, solidifying their legacy as compassionate lyricists.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

This compilation captures R.E.M.'s diverse catalog but lacks a cohesive narrative flow typical of original albums.

What we noticed

Several tracks are presented in their original album versions, while others are remastered or edited for this compilation, affecting the overall sound quality.
The first half of the album maintains a consistent tempo and energy level, while the latter half introduces slower, more reflective pieces.
The inclusion of lesser-known tracks alongside hits creates a balance that invites both casual listeners and dedicated fans to explore R.E.M.'s catalog.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

nostalgic reflections on past
dynamic flow with peaks
introspective listening experience
for long drives
wave-like pacing throughout

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone tracks
seek constant high energy

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A comprehensive retrospective that showcases R.E.M.'s evolution and impact.
Themes: college rock origins· cultural reflection· poignant storytelling
Moods: Nostalgic· Introspective
Career context: Released in 2011, this compilation marked R.E.M.'s final album before their breakup, serving as a reflective overview of their influential career spanning nearly three decades. It includes tracks from their debut 'Murmur' to their later work, encapsulating the band's journey from college rock pioneers to mainstream icons.
Stylistic neighbors: The B-52's· The Smiths· Pixies