Len S. (lens) -
Author Craig Rosen does a decent job of researching interviews of R.E.M. members and those who've worked with the band. He divys up quotes to present insight into the each song's lyrics--often quotes that conflict with each other.
Rosen does tend to overplay possible distant theme links among songs, but usually only when he has little else to work with for a particular song.
The photos in this book are a definite plus, both thorough and applicable to the text.
On balance, this is not a definitive guide to exact meanings of R.E.M. songs. Those familiar with their work understand that is not possible. It is, however, a great official introduction to the band as well as a pleasurable encyclopedia to accompany most of R.E.M.'s catalog.
Rosen does tend to overplay possible distant theme links among songs, but usually only when he has little else to work with for a particular song.
The photos in this book are a definite plus, both thorough and applicable to the text.
On balance, this is not a definitive guide to exact meanings of R.E.M. songs. Those familiar with their work understand that is not possible. It is, however, a great official introduction to the band as well as a pleasurable encyclopedia to accompany most of R.E.M.'s catalog.
