The Automatic Box
R.E.M. · 1993
63 min · 18 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop
A collage of experimental sounds and emotive live performances capturing R.E.M.'s eclectic spirit in the early '90s.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic journey with emotional peaks
- wave-like pacing invites reflection
- experimental sounds for adventurous listeners
- live performances evoke nostalgia
- short tracks encourage replaying
Maybe skip if you want
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer structured, predictable albums
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 1993, 'The Automatic Box' came as R.E.M. was transitioning from mainstream commercial success with 'Out of Time' to a more experimental phase. This collection of B-sides and rarities showcased their willingness to explore diverse musical ideas while maintaining their signature alternative rock sound during a period of intense creative output.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The B-52's· The Smiths· Pixies
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 It’s a Free World Baby 5:16
- 2 Fretless 4:52
- 3 Chance (dub) 2:36
- 4 Star Me Kitten (demo) 3:04
Disc 2
- 1 Winged Mammal Theme 2:59
- 2 Organ Song 3:26
- 3 Mandolin Strum 3:48
- 4 Fruity Organ 3:28
- 5 New Orleans Instrumental #2 3:47
Disc 3
- 1 Arms of Love 3:36
- 2 Dark Globe 1:54
- 3 The Lion Sleeps Tonight 2:43
- 4 First We Take Manhattan 6:03
Disc 4
- 1 Ghostrider 3:47
- 2 Funtime 2:15
- 3 Memphis Train Blues 1:41
- 4 Pop Song ’89 (acoustic) 2:58
- 5 Everybody Hurts (live 1993 MTV Awards) 5:32
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.