That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Mary Lou Kylis — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:33:55 GMT

This band has always stayed true to ther art,has always given their all in performance and for over 25 yeas has treated their fans with love and respect.I am so happy the reviews are wonderful and am looking forward to the show and tour that follows.Thank You REM. I WILL remember every moment! MLK

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Jason P. — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:57:38 GMT

I stopped listening to R.E.M. when Michael Stipe's overly-affected personality became the focus of the band. He always struck me as a pseudo-intellectual tool, and when the tool began to dwarf the music it was time to check-out.

I wonder if that's changed at all?

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Robin, Huntsville, AL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 19:02:27 GMT

You tell it, Mary Lou!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Angela A., Destin, FL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 23:47:28 GMT

Looking forward to REM performing on Today Show! However, I must say that the last "great album" was Automatic - I love the band but a lot changed when Bill left. Also, the Today Show "quiz" is wrong! I'm a true fan and the answers are incorrect! For one, I have 15+ REM albums!! I've seen them play many times including Athens, GA and I truly love the band - one of the greatest of all times! I always stop in my tracks when a REM song is playing!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Rob, Milan, MI — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 04:26:46 GMT

Jason, just out of curiosity, whom do you listen to and admire musically?

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Colin Douglass, Hermosa Beach, California — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 04:51:31 GMT

I always have time for R.E.M. I've been a fan for 23 years and they almost always bring something new, useful and unexpected to the table. My heart is a happier hunter having heard and listened.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Reeve Baily — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 05:20:50 GMT

I heard them on NPR and I really really WANTED them to have a U2 like resurgence but it just doesn't sound like it's there. That REM harmony between Mike and Michael that was such a trademark...now just seems so forced. The lyrics seem clunky and the guitar just so obvious. REM, as always, will define their own success...but if they want fans onboard it's an uphill climb. I will be watching tomorrow...Here's wishing you proove me wrong.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Sven, Kruibeke (Belgium) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 09:27:17 GMT

To Jason P.:
Name three groups in which the singer is not the central figure. Singers are usually more focussed upon because they tend to write the lyrics, thus defining the songs content.
Stipe did not endorse his own role as central figure (loathed it for years on end) until the mid 90ies when he took it on. Before then Peter Buck did most of the interviews together with Mike Mills. Question: how important is that really? If you look at the documentary '6 days' (extra dvd with the cd of the limited edition of 'Accelerate'), you can see and hear that R.E.M. is a democracy in which everyone has his voice. The fact that the press always focusses on Stipe is the press' problem, really.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Julie, Lancaster, England — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 09:57:46 GMT

After getting to know some tracks well over the last few months and then listening to the whole album yesterday (it was released in the UK on the 31st) I can definately say this is a great album - but I have also loved each and every one. The band's genius shines through at some point on every album - they just sometimes relise their full potential when performing live.
Rock on lads!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Todd, VA Beach — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 11:28:21 GMT

The fact that you use the term "tool" says enough! This band has influenced everyone from White Stripes to Coldplay, Oasis and Ryan Adams. This album is astonishing and by the looks of your message...way above your intellect. Don't bother purchasing...a boy band is making a comeback soon and needs your attention.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Mike, Chicago, Illinois — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 11:48:48 GMT

R.E.M. is the most intellectually stimulating band in recent times. Never having sold themselves out in order to gain 'popularity', they've held true to their convictions. I personally do not care if they aren't as popular as other mainstream bands of their era. Their music has and will continue to withstand the test of time. Thanks guys!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Emily, South Carolina — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:55:33 GMT

I'm going to be late for my morning appointments just to keep watching them! When I first started listening to REM (in the early-mid 80's), my friends and I had to have our dads drive us around the state to see the concerts! Now, I've passed the love of REM on to my nephew. He is blind and hears music in a different way than most of us. He is really getting into "rock" and likes to pick out the drums and base. With REM, the music is always good and I don't have to worry about censoring the lyrics! Thanks Today Show for having them on this morning!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

AnneLouise — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:00:33 GMT

Its all about the music. I don't care how Michael acts out his music. I'm listening, not watching. Its just seems like their music is ingrained in my psych. - Keep playing guys.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Mona G Tampa Fl — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:01:00 GMT

Heard of REM but never actually listened to them --heard them on NBC todays show and like them.. Will definetly be checking out more of them.. as I just found out they been around quite some time.. I think thats a good thing..

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Sherri, Athens GA! — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:07:40 GMT

These BOYS are AWSOME!! This birngs back my days at the 40 Watt on Broad Street!! Athens is so proud!!! You guys are the VERY BEST!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Fly — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:16:31 GMT

REM just blew up my tv.Life will never be the same here.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Donna, Fort Meade, Florida — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:24:16 GMT

What was the name of the first song REM performed on the Today Show this morning?

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Kent Baer, Pasadena, CA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:36:03 GMT

Why is Europe so brilliant and they seem to just "get REM!" Here I am just floundering around with the mostly U.S. morons who can't seem to get past the fact that Bill Berry happened to want to persue other life intrests while Michael, Peter & Mike happen to want to contintue making geniuous. incredible, life changing music for all of us! Thank You REM!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Alexander, Savannah, Georgia — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:49:37 GMT

If catering to the ADD crowd of music-lovers in today's world means standing side by side with Hannah Montana and the latest American Idol, I'm happy instead to hear R.E.M. growling in the underground making authentic American music, free from the mediocrity of popular 'taste.'

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Mark N. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:54:51 GMT

It's amazing to think that I have been listening to R.E.M. since I was 18 years old, and I am now 40! (and more amazingly, they are still together!). I have always thought of their albums as postcards sent from an old friend who lives far away. I'm always fascinated to see what they're up to. Every album they have released has marked a different point in my life (college, early adulthood, romantic heartbreak, marriage, children). In a sense, R.E.M. has provided the soundtrack to my life.

I'm really excited about the positive buzz surrounding the new CD and look forward to buying it when I get out of work. (I guess this proves I'm an old fogie when I admit that I will be buying the CD rather than downloading it!). Thank you, R.E.M. for all the enjoyment you've provided me for all these years!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Mark N., Lansing, MI — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:56:29 GMT

Oh, Mark N. is from Lansing, MI!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

John, Colby, Kan. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:40:15 GMT

I'm really tired of people saying the band has changed since Bill left 10 years ago. If you look closely, even if Bill would have stayed, they would have pursued the sounds of Up, Reveal and Around the Sun. Besides, Bill left 10 years ago, why is that still news today? R.E.M. pioneered new sounds in the early 1980s when they started. They obviously don't want to do the same thing every time. I don't blame them. Look at what happened to bands 20 plus years ago who did that? They are all gone. R.E.M. has survived.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Philip Herold, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:47:47 GMT

First, when as a middle schooler you listened to "It's the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)", makes me feel old. My buddy Stew and I drove down to Atlanta from Athens for every night of REM at the Fox, supporting the Life's Rich Pageant tour - the best. "Superman" blasting out across the sea of revelers has to be one of the finest musical moments in my life. I think what the nay-sayers are missing is that REM is not, and hasn't over their career, turned to the Jimmy Buffett-style nostalgia touring band. The have attempted to remain relevant. By their own admission they have fell short of their goals at times. However, they are held, year after year, to a standard what is wholley their own. The fact is, they occupy a space in popular cutlure that is theirs alone - and if they do not meet to our arbitrary, internal and personal,bmuscial aspirations - we pummel them. I'll listen to this album with an open mind and welcom it into my collection.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Claire, Tipton, England — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:51:28 GMT

I totally agree with Mark N. I have been an avid REM fan since the beginning. I love everything about them and have found that even though the albums were not their best there are still songs that you enjoy and want to hear again and again. I have spent the last day listening to accelerate, WOW!!!!! I saw them at the Royal Albert Hall in March and will be at Twickenham in August. Thankyou guys for the last 25 years and hopefully many more to come. We are not worthy!!!!!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Martin, SC — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 20:21:41 GMT

To Anglea in Desitn Fl.

R.E.M. only has 14 "new" studio albums. Live albums, greatest hits, and "Dead Letter Office" shouldn't be considered when answering that question.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

John Ahearn, Athens Ga. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:25:21 GMT

Thats Our Hometown Boys doing what they DO!!!!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Chris McR, Seattle, Washington USA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:47:10 GMT

I have enjoyed REM since the early 80's, and feel like I have participated in an adventure. I have always believed that great artists can only be great if they are willing to experiment, and not be mentally restricted by the fear of failure. We can name endless bands that have the same sound and recipe for their music. Generally boring, and never fresh. Keep experimenting, and the true fulfillment will be the triumph of writing those special gems that only arise from hard work, trial and error and passion. I will pick up Accelerate today. Deregulate your mind.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

J Truschel, Bakersfield, CA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:33:22 GMT

Ive been listening to REM since the beginning and have to say they are the most intelligent, honest, and best of all entertaining band in the past 25 or so years. I really dont care about the critics since I liked of their albums. At least these gentleman can write songs that actually make the listener think! Watched the show, cant wait to see them in concert at the Hollywood Bowl! Love the new CD.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Jason, Cleveland , Ohio — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:06:59 GMT

REM has once again delivered a fantastic album!!!
I have collection of 100+Cd's & DVD's and they all have their own emotional value. I have been listening to them since I was 9 years old and I will never stop. Keep the good music coming. Thank You - Michael,Mike,Peter and the rest of the gang.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Julie, Amelia Ohio — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:54:51 GMT

Loved their old stuff. Just not the same without Bill.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

David ,Waterford ,Ireland — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:04:11 GMT

I think the majority of contributors have said it a lot better than me,but I'll reiterate it
Thank you R.E.M for all the wonderful music,providing an excellent soundtrack for many of our lives and most importantly,keeping us very very happy.
Different class

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Nikitas Georgopoulos, Athens, Greece — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:09:54 GMT

Hello. Here in Greece we love R.E.M. But they came only once in 1999. If someone knows a way to communicate with them, it will be very satisfactory the fact to come one more time for a concert here in Greece. Please, do something to see them again. I am a big fan of R.E.M.. I thank you all.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

paul whitchurch garfield nj — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 20:57:06 GMT

accelerate 1st 3 songs may be 3 of the best ever and i go back to chronic town gtar gtar #1 REM fan in NJ awesome cd cant wait for june MSG thanx paul

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Steve G. Indiana — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 03:23:27 GMT

I love these guys. I try to listen to other stuff when I'm driving and I just can't. Their new songs are really going to attract new fans and please the older ones like myself. Can't wait for the Tour!

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Port St. John (Cocoa), FL — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 09:51:56 GMT

Mark N, couldn't have said it better. It feels very much as if R.E.M. has "provided the soundtrack to my life" as well!

They have been my best friend in times where there simply weren't any.

Dicovered them in the summer of '91 at the age of 18, when a friend of mine introduced me to the songs, One I love, and It's the End of thr World as we know it. So, Document was my first album and the rest soon followed.

I am now 34 and still listening, thoroughly enjoying every album, waiting in great anticipation for them to put out each new one, or find something new to read/watch from the band online.

I too have and will continue to Remember Every Moment.

Hope there's still more to come.

Thanks R.E.M. for all of the years, songs, and for just being there period.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

andy birmingham england — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 20:04:18 GMT

with or without bill REM ARE STILL BRILL. i love all what they have done. i will see u in cardiff. reveal is the best. please continue lads.love you.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

John Golby,Buckinghamshire,England — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 17:32:17 GMT

Kent Baer made some very gracious remarks about the REM fanbase in Europe and really I think it's because we very much appreciate the band making the effort to come over and play.Even when sales don't seem to be doing so well they never forget to come over to England to give us a blast of that great music.

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Sese — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 19:20:33 GMT

Here is a new about R.E.M's new album <Accelerate> and some pictures too !!!

From Art School to the Hall of Fame: R.E.M. Give a Tour of Their Discography

www.rollingstone.com

That's Great It Starts With an Earthquake: R.E.M. Is Coming to the Plaza

Derek D, Canada — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 11:15:16 GMT

Finally, an R.E.M. album that is fun to listen to again! Around the Sun and Reveal were way too mellow and sappy if you are a fan like me who loves the high speed gritty jangley lyric spitting addictive melodic hooky graceful in your face type of R.E.M. songs. Dont get me wrong, some of their best songs are pretty mellow but just not as bland and contrived as the stuff from Around the Sun and Reveal. Everyone still talks about Bill Berry leaving 10 years ago because believe it or not, he was the heartbeat of the band and if you cant tell the difference between their sound after he left and from before then you arent really listening. He is what they are missing if we are TRULY ever going to hear a 100% GREAT R.E.M. album ever again. Accelerate is 90% great, good job Bill Rieflin!