Murmur
R.E.M. · 1983
44 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop
A shimmering, atmospheric blend of jangly guitars and cryptic lyrics that defines the early alternative rock sound.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions atmospheric background focus dynamic emotional journeys
- Context
- Released on April 11, 1983, 'Murmur' was R.E.M.'s debut album, emerging as a pivotal moment in their career. At this point, the band had cultivated a dedicated following in the college rock scene but were still relatively unknown to mainstream audiences. This album laid the groundwork for their subsequent rise to prominence in the alternative music landscape.
- If you like
- alternative rock, folk rock, jangle pop
Murmur is an album by R.E.M., released in 1983. A shimmering, atmospheric blend of jangly guitars and cryptic lyrics that defines the early alternative rock sound. 'Murmur' is often credited with ushering in the alternative rock movement of the 1980s, earning critical acclaim from publications like Rolling Stone and receiving a spot on numerous 'best of' lists. The album peaked at No. 36 on the Billboard 200 and has since been recognized for its influence on countless artists within the indie and alternative genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Murmur sound like?
A shimmering, atmospheric blend of jangly guitars and cryptic lyrics that defines the early alternative rock sound. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.
What makes Murmur by R.E.M. notable?
'Murmur' is often credited with ushering in the alternative rock movement of the 1980s, earning critical acclaim from publications like Rolling Stone and receiving a spot on numerous 'best of' lists. The album peaked at No. 36 on the Billboard 200 and has since been recognized for its influence on countless artists within the indie and alternative genres. Released on April 11, 1983, 'Murmur' was R.E.M.'s debut album, emerging as a pivotal moment in their career. At this point, the band had cultivated a dedicated following in the college rock scene but were still relatively unknown to mainstream audiences. This album laid the groundwork for their subsequent rise to prominence in the alternative music landscape.
Who is Murmur for?
Murmur works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, atmospheric background focus and dynamic emotional journeys.
How many songs are on Murmur?
Murmur has 12 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Radio Free Europe Standout 4:05
- 2 Pilgrimage 4:29
- 3 Laughing 3:58
- 4 Talk About the Passion Standout 3:23
- 5 Moral Kiosk 3:32
- 6 Perfect Circle Standout 3:30
- 7 Catapult 3:56
- 8 Sitting Still 3:18
- 9 9–9 3:04
- 10 Shaking Through 4:30
- 11 We Walk 3:01
- 12 West of the Fields 3:18
Release Date
April 11, 1983
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
44 min 11 sec
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