I wasn't alive in the eighties, but I was there. There are only a few beautifully crafted gems that can take us to places and times that we've never actually existed in, and this album is absolutely on that list. Murmur marked not only a wonderful testament to human achievement and possibility, but also a stunningly timeless yet new and sparkling feeling. This album, full of jangly guitars and poppy, melodic bass riffs combined with entirely original drumming and Michael Stipe's haunting, cryptic lyrics, proves itself as a masterpiece by the third track.
There is a notion of triumph throughout this whole album, as if the band members knew exactly what they were on to before they even recorded it. Everything is so fresh and new, yet so classic and easily grasped. It is truly very difficult to put into words the feeling that this album can invoke. The songs sprawl and intertwine together, and every single one of them comes to a strong and untouchable crest. There is a mature and accomplished feeling to the songs, while at the same time a child-like playfulness creeps along and hides just under the surface. Opposites attract beautifully on this album.
Stipe's lyrics are romantic as can be, just as his voice is. Still very young, he rasps out many of his vocals in a demanding and vicious, yet desperately important tone. The track "Laughing" breathes with these notions. He repeats the word "Lighted" throughout the song, while leaving it up to the listener to decide if he is indeed saying "delighted" in some instances. This mystery is of a good nature, however. This song especially can leave the listener with nothing but a feeling of romantic joy.
This album also basically pioneered the alternative college genre. From the new bass techniques (especially the way the lines melodically carry the whole album) employed by Mike Mills, to Bill Berry's swift, young and restless drumming, to Peter Buck's absolutely genius jangly, gorgeous guitar, and to Michael Stipe's timeless yet mystical lyrics, everything about this album is perfect. Let's not forget that Mills, Berry and Buck all played piano on this album, which is a wholesome addition to many of the tracks.
This album truly emphasizes newness and love. It is a standard in alternative rock. I do not have enough good things to say about it. While R.E.M. have made other perfect albums in my opinion, none of them come close to the impact and originality of this one. Do not pass this by. It should be in every music enthusiasts collection.
Notable tracks (though all of them are brilliant) - Laughing, Talk About The Passion, Perfect Circle, Sitting Still, Shaking Through.
This one is essential - 5/5
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