New Adventures in Hi-Fi
R.E.M. · 1996
65 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop
A vibrant tapestry of jangly guitars, poignant lyrics, and introspective melodies weaving through themes of disillusionment and hope.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys contemplative reflective moods
- Context
- Released on September 10, 1996, 'New Adventures in Hi-Fi' marked R.E.M.'s first album after the departure of drummer Bill Berry. This record came during a transitional period for the band as they navigated their sound and identity following the commercial peak of 'Automatic for the People'. The album also coincided with a heavy touring cycle, recorded primarily during breaks from their concerts.
- If you like
- alternative rock, folk rock, jangle pop
New Adventures in Hi-Fi is an album by R.E.M., released in 1996. A vibrant tapestry of jangly guitars, poignant lyrics, and introspective melodies weaving through themes of disillusionment and hope. 'New Adventures in Hi-Fi' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and received critical acclaim for its explorative sound. The album's single 'What's the Frequency, Kenneth?' became a cultural touchstone and helped solidify R.E.M.'s influence on alternative rock in the mid-90s, showcasing their ability to blend introspective lyrics with accessible melodies. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does New Adventures in Hi-Fi sound like?
A vibrant tapestry of jangly guitars, poignant lyrics, and introspective melodies weaving through themes of disillusionment and hope. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.
What makes New Adventures in Hi-Fi by R.E.M. notable?
'New Adventures in Hi-Fi' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and received critical acclaim for its explorative sound. The album's single 'What's the Frequency, Kenneth?' became a cultural touchstone and helped solidify R.E.M.'s influence on alternative rock in the mid-90s, showcasing their ability to blend introspective lyrics with accessible melodies. Released on September 10, 1996, 'New Adventures in Hi-Fi' marked R.E.M.'s first album after the departure of drummer Bill Berry. This record came during a transitional period for the band as they navigated their sound and identity following the commercial peak of 'Automatic for the People'. The album also coincided with a heavy touring cycle, recorded primarily during breaks from their concerts.
Who is New Adventures in Hi-Fi for?
New Adventures in Hi-Fi works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and contemplative reflective moods.
How many songs are on New Adventures in Hi-Fi?
New Adventures in Hi-Fi has 14 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 How the West Was Won and Where It Got Us Standout 4:31
- 2 The Wake‐Up Bomb 5:08
- 3 New Test Leper 5:26
- 4 Undertow 5:09
- 5 E‐Bow the Letter Standout 5:24
- 6 Leave 7:17
- 7 Departure 3:29
- 8 Bittersweet Me Standout 4:05
- 9 Be Mine 5:33
- 10 Binky the Doormat 5:01
- 11 Zither 2:34
- 12 So Fast, So Numb 4:12
- 13 Low Desert 3:31
- 14 Electrolite 4:05
Release Date
September 10, 1996
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
65 min 31 sec
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