Around the Sun
R.E.M. · 2004
55 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop
A reflective blend of melodic rock and introspective lyrics, capturing a sense of yearning and nostalgia.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- reflective, introspective listening sessions gradual builds and payoffs melodic soundscapes for relaxation
- Context
- Around the Sun marks R.E.M.'s 13th studio album, following their critically acclaimed release, Reveal (2001). At this point in their career, the band was navigating changes in both their sound and lineup dynamics, as they transitioned into a more mature phase of their music. The album came during a time when R.E.M. was exploring new production techniques while still maintaining their signature alternative rock style.
- If you like
- alternative rock, folk rock, jangle pop
Around the Sun is an album by R.E.M., released in 2004. A reflective blend of melodic rock and introspective lyrics, capturing a sense of yearning and nostalgia. The album debuted at number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing R.E.M.'s enduring popularity despite the changing music landscape. It received mixed reviews from critics but is notable for its exploration of themes such as disconnection and societal reflection, resonating with listeners during the early 2000s' political climate. 'Leaving New York' achieved considerable radio play and remains one of the band's noteworthy singles from this era. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Around the Sun sound like?
A reflective blend of melodic rock and introspective lyrics, capturing a sense of yearning and nostalgia. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.
What makes Around the Sun by R.E.M. notable?
The album debuted at number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing R.E.M.'s enduring popularity despite the changing music landscape. It received mixed reviews from critics but is notable for its exploration of themes such as disconnection and societal reflection, resonating with listeners during the early 2000s' political climate. 'Leaving New York' achieved considerable radio play and remains one of the band's noteworthy singles from this era. Around the Sun marks R.E.M.'s 13th studio album, following their critically acclaimed release, Reveal (2001). At this point in their career, the band was navigating changes in both their sound and lineup dynamics, as they transitioned into a more mature phase of their music. The album came during a time when R.E.M. was exploring new production techniques while still maintaining their signature alternative rock style.
Who is Around the Sun for?
Around the Sun works well if you're into reflective, introspective listening sessions, gradual builds and payoffs and melodic soundscapes for relaxation.
How many songs are on Around the Sun?
Around the Sun has 13 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Leaving New York Standout 4:49
- 2 Electron Blue 4:12
- 3 The Outsiders Standout 4:14
- 4 Make It All Okay 3:44
- 5 Final Straw Standout 4:07
- 6 I Wanted to Be Wrong 4:35
- 7 Wanderlust 3:03
- 8 Boy in the Well 5:22
- 9 Aftermath 3:53
- 10 High Speed Train 5:03
- 11 The Worst Joke Ever 3:38
- 12 The Ascent of Man 4:07
- 13 Around the Sun 4:28
Release Date
October 5, 2004
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
55 min 21 sec
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