R.E.M.'s ninth album, Monster, was released at a time when the band were coming off the peak of their mainstream success, following 'Out of Time' (1991) and 'Automatic For The People' (1992). Coming from a long break in touring (the band famously didn't tour with the two previous records), Monster represented an intentional shift in R.E.M.'s sound, a "return to rock" with guitar laden, simple arrangements. It was released to strong reviews and significant global success - reaching #1 on Billboard. Celebrating Monster's 25th anniversary, this expanded 2-LP edition offers the original album remastered, plus a special 2019 remix from producer Scott Litt. The set also features liner notes by journalist Matthew Perpetua - with new insight from band members - and archival photographs, as well as imagined cover art. Highlights include the singles "What's The Frequency, Kenneth?," "Crush with Eyeliner," "Star 69," "Strange Currencies," "Tongue," and "Bang and Blame." |