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.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic journey with emotional peaks wave-like pacing invites reflection experimental sounds for adventurous listeners
- 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.
- If you like
- alternative rock, folk rock, jangle pop
The Automatic Box is an album by R.E.M., released in 1993. A collage of experimental sounds and emotive live performances capturing R.E.M.'s eclectic spirit in the early '90s. This album is significant for its candid glimpse into R.E.M.'s creative process, featuring unreleased tracks and live performances. The inclusion of notable cuts like 'Everybody Hurts (live)' highlights the band's enduring impact on the alternative rock scene and showcases their emotional resonance with audiences, particularly during the early '90s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Automatic Box sound like?
A collage of experimental sounds and emotive live performances capturing R.E.M.'s eclectic spirit in the early '90s. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.
What makes The Automatic Box by R.E.M. notable?
This album is significant for its candid glimpse into R.E.M.'s creative process, featuring unreleased tracks and live performances. The inclusion of notable cuts like 'Everybody Hurts (live)' highlights the band's enduring impact on the alternative rock scene and showcases their emotional resonance with audiences, particularly during the early '90s. 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.
Who is The Automatic Box for?
The Automatic Box works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, wave-like pacing invites reflection and experimental sounds for adventurous listeners.
How many songs are on The Automatic Box?
The Automatic Box has 18 tracks, running approximately 63 minutes.
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 Standout 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) Standout 2:58
- 5 Everybody Hurts (live 1993 MTV Awards) Standout 5:32
Release Date
January 1, 1993
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
63 min 53 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
