Fables of the Reconstruction
R.E.M. · 1985
39 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop
A rich tapestry of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that evokes a sense of Southern storytelling.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- short, reflective listening sessions layered, dense sonic textures dynamic emotional journeys
- Context
- Released on June 10, 1985, 'Fables of the Reconstruction' was R.E.M.'s third album, following their breakthrough record 'Reckoning'. At this point in their career, R.E.M. was transitioning from indie darlings to a more mainstream audience, signifying a pivotal moment in their evolution as they began to explore more complex themes and sounds.
- If you like
- alternative rock, folk rock, jangle pop
Fables of the Reconstruction is an album by R.E.M., released in 1985. A rich tapestry of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that evokes a sense of Southern storytelling. 'Fables of the Reconstruction' is notable for its critical acclaim, featuring prominently in year-end lists and receiving praise for its lyrical depth. The album reached No. 28 on the Billboard 200 and marked a significant step in solidifying R.E.M.'s influence within the alternative rock scene during the mid-1980s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Fables of the Reconstruction sound like?
A rich tapestry of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that evokes a sense of Southern storytelling. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.
What makes Fables of the Reconstruction by R.E.M. notable?
'Fables of the Reconstruction' is notable for its critical acclaim, featuring prominently in year-end lists and receiving praise for its lyrical depth. The album reached No. 28 on the Billboard 200 and marked a significant step in solidifying R.E.M.'s influence within the alternative rock scene during the mid-1980s. Released on June 10, 1985, 'Fables of the Reconstruction' was R.E.M.'s third album, following their breakthrough record 'Reckoning'. At this point in their career, R.E.M. was transitioning from indie darlings to a more mainstream audience, signifying a pivotal moment in their evolution as they began to explore more complex themes and sounds.
Who is Fables of the Reconstruction for?
Fables of the Reconstruction works well if you're into short, reflective listening sessions, layered, dense sonic textures and dynamic emotional journeys.
How many songs are on Fables of the Reconstruction?
Fables of the Reconstruction has 11 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Feeling Gravity’s Pull 4:51
- 2 Maps and Legends 3:10
- 3 Driver 8 Standout 3:24
- 4 Life and How to Live It 4:08
- 5 Old Man Kensey 4:10
- 6 Can’t Get There From Here 3:40
- 7 Green Grow the Rushes 3:45
- 8 Kohoutek 3:16
- 9 Auctioneer (Another Engine) 2:44
- 10 Good Advices 3:30
- 11 Wendell Gee Standout 3:00
Release Date
June 10, 1985
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
39 min 42 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
