Around the Sun

Around the Sun is an album by R.E.M. released in 2004. This release notable for its stripped-back production, inciting some reviewers to have labelled it slightly "flat" in sound. Around the Sun generally received lukewarm critical praise and despite hitting #1 in the UK, it became their first studio album to miss the US Top 10 (reaching #13) since 1988's Green and is still awaiting a gold record.

Related Topics:
R.E.M. - 2004 - Green

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In many ways, Around the Sun continues R.E.M.'s trend of refusing to be pressed into a stylistic corner and many listeners have found it to be a pleasant, easy-going piece which manages to retain the band's trademark for quirkiness and subtle themes. This is also the first R.E.M. album to have a title track.

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Lead single "Leaving New York" became a UK Top 5 hit, with additional singles "Aftermath", "Electron Blue" and "Wanderlust" becoming minor hits there as well. Around the Sun has not had any singles success in the US, however.

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"The Outsiders" features a guest appearance by rapper Q-Tip, recalling a similar appearance by KRS-One on "Radio Song" from their 1991 album Out of Time. When performed live, Michael Stipe carries out the rap.

Related Topics:
Q-Tip - KRS-One - Out of Time

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"Final Straw", considered one of Around the Suns highlights, is a politically-charged song, reminiscent in tone to "World Leader Pretend" on Green. The version on the album is a re recording of "Final Straw" which was made available as a free download in 2003 from the band's website, which the band wrote and made available in opposition to the US government's actions in the Iraq war of 2003.

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In 2005, Warner Bros. Records issued an expanded two-disc edition of Around the Sun which includes a CD and a DVD, as well as the original CD booklet with expanded liner notes.

Related Topics:
2005 - Warner Bros. Records

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