Is Up a good place to start with R.E.M.?

Yes, Up is recommended as a starting point for new R.E.M. listeners. A contemplative blend of atmospheric melodies and introspective lyrics that capture a sense of searching and vulnerability. Released on October 27, 1998, Up marked R.E.M.'s first album after the departure of drummer Bill Berry, showcasing a shift toward more experimental sounds. This album followed the band's commercial peak with Automatic for the People and signaled a new direction as they adapted to changes in their lineup and musical landscape.

Up works well if you're into reflective late-night listening, long immersive listening sessions and introspective emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Up?

Up has 14 tracks, running approximately 64 minutes.

Released 28 years ago this October

Up

R.E.M. · 1998

64 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

A contemplative blend of atmospheric melodies and introspective lyrics that capture a sense of searching and vulnerability.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Airportman Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Daysleeper — This track combines haunting melodies with themes of alienation and yearning, making it emblematic of the album's introspective nature. Its blend of dreamlike lyrics and accessible pop sensibility highlights R.E.M.'s ability to evolve while maintaining emotional depth.
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At My Most Beautiful — With its lush instrumentation and romantic undertones, this song encapsulates the delicate balance between beauty and melancholy present throughout the album. The earnestness in its lyrics adds a layer of sincerity that resonates deeply within R.E.M.'s discography.
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Walk Unafraid — This track features an uplifting message wrapped in rich harmonies and intricate arrangements, representing a sense of resilience amidst uncertainty. Its energetic feel contrasts with the overarching themes of vulnerability found in other songs on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album's experimental approach and atmospheric sound mark a notable shift for R.E.M., though it may not resonate deeply with all listeners.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent use of atmospheric instrumentation, while the second half introduces more varied arrangements and dynamics.
The album includes moments of silence and sparse instrumentation, particularly in tracks like 'Sad Professor', creating a contemplative mood.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

reflective late-night listening
long immersive listening sessions
introspective emotional journeys
melancholic background ambiance

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Represents a significant shift in sound following a key lineup change.
Themes: post-Berry transition· dreamlike alienation· romantic melancholy
Moods: Melancholy· Introspective
Career context: Released on October 27, 1998, Up marked R.E.M.'s first album after the departure of drummer Bill Berry, showcasing a shift toward more experimental sounds. This album followed the band's commercial peak with Automatic for the People and signaled a new direction as they adapted to changes in their lineup and musical landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: The B-52's· The Smiths· Pixies