“Out of Time”: R.E.M.’s Leap Into the Mainstream
“Out of Time,” the seventh studio album by alternative rock band R.E.M., signaled a new chapter in the band’s career. Released in 1991, the album saw the band moving away from their college radio roots to embrace a more mainstream sound. This transition was successful, resulting in commercial success and critical acclaim. However, it didn’t signify a compromise on the band’s part; instead, “Out of Time” highlighted R.E.M.’s ability to evolve and experiment with their music while still retaining their distinctive character and vision.
“Out of Time” opens with “Radio Song,” a track that immediately announces the band’s departure from their previous work. This song features a funky rhythm, a catchy melody, and a guest appearance by rapper KRS-One. While the band’s use of hip-hop elements may have been a surprise to long-time fans, it demonstrates R.E.M.’s willingness to push boundaries and expand their musical horizons.
The album’s most iconic track is arguably “Losing My Religion,” a hauntingly beautiful song that showcases frontman Michael Stipe’s evocative vocals and the band’s knack for creating memorable melodies. The song’s use of a mandolin as a lead instrument lends it a unique, folk-like quality that sets it apart from other mainstream rock songs. The lyrics, while cryptic, convey a sense of longing and frustration that resonates deeply with listeners. “Losing My Religion” was a massive hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing R.E.M.’s status as a major player in the music world.
“Out of Time” is notable for its musical diversity. From the country-tinged “Half a World Away” to the orchestral pop of “Near Wild Heaven” and the indie rock vibes of “Texarkana,” each track offers something unique and engaging. This variety keeps the album fresh and exciting, demonstrating the band’s wide-ranging musical influences and their ability to seamlessly blend different genres.
Another standout track is “Country Feedback,” a heart-wrenching ballad that showcases the band’s emotional depth. The song features some of Stipe’s most poignant lyrics, and his powerful, heartfelt vocal performance is a highlight of the album. The raw, stripped-down production, coupled with the emotional intensity of the performance, makes “Country Feedback” one of R.E.M.’s most moving and memorable songs.
The band’s decision to experiment with different musical styles and sounds on “Out of Time” is largely successful. However, some critics argue that the album’s diverse tracklist results in a lack of cohesion. While it’s true that “Out of Time” is a departure from R.E.M.’s earlier, more consistent sound, this diversity is also one of the album’s strengths. It showcases the band’s versatility and creativity, and makes for an engaging and unpredictable listening experience.
Upon its release, “Out of Time” was a commercial and critical success. It topped the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom, and went on to win three Grammy Awards, including Best Alternative Music Album. The album’s success marked a turning point in R.E.M.’s career, catapulting them into the mainstream and broadening their fanbase.
Looking back, “Out of Time” remains a significant album in R.E.M.’s discography and in the broader context of early ’90s music. Its blend of alternative rock, folk, country, and pop elements created a sound that was distinctively R.E.M., yet also accessible to a wider audience. The album’s innovative songwriting, engaging performances, and emotional depth set a high standard for alternative rock music, and its influence can still be felt in the music of many contemporary bands.
Thematically, “Out of Time” is a reflection of its era, grappling with the anxieties, hopes, and disillusionments of the early ’90s. However, the universal emotions and experiences that the album explores — longing, loss, frustration, and the struggle to find meaning — have ensured its enduring relevance. Whether you’re listening to the plaintive strains of “Losing My Religion” or the bittersweet melodies of “Half a World Away,” the songs on “Out of Time” continue to resonate on a deeply personal level.
The album’s production, helmed by Scott Litt and the band, also deserves mention. The lush, layered soundscapes they created perfectly complement the songs, enhancing their emotional impact without overwhelming them. The production plays a crucial role in creating the album’s distinctive atmosphere, which is at turns melancholic, introspective, and hopeful.
In terms of performances, each member of R.E.M. shines on “Out of Time.” Stipe’s emotive vocals are at the heart of the album, conveying a wide range of emotions with subtlety and nuance. Peter Buck’s inventive guitar work and mandolin playing provide much of the album’s melodic backbone, while Mike Mills’ basslines and backing vocals add depth and richness to the songs. Drummer Bill Berry’s solid rhythms anchor the music, providing a steady foundation for his bandmates’ explorations.
“Out of Time” is a landmark album that captures R.E.M. at a pivotal moment in their career. It represents the band’s successful transition from cult favorites to mainstream stars, without compromising their artistic integrity. Its innovative blend of genres, heartfelt lyricism, and memorable melodies make it a standout release in the band’s impressive discography and a must-listen for any fan of alternative rock. More than three decades after its release, “Out of Time” remains a compelling and rewarding listening experience, a testament to R.E.M.’s enduring appeal and the timeless power of their music.
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