All true fans know that Michael Stipe is, in fact, a velociraptor

The Gig:

The gig takes place in a simple setting with only 350 fans in attendance and none of the staging paraphernalia that comes with touring. The simplicity of the stage design creates an interesting dichotomy with the tracks themselves which weave from simplistic melodies to epic lyrics seamlessly, aural contradictions that only Michael Stipe could achieve with such effortless perfection. Stipe could probably sing The Very Hungry Caterpillar and make it sound soulful, epic, and eloquent enough for an adult audience.

The gig itself was performed as the group were promoting last album Accelerate on March 13th 2008 and the DVD is taken from their Austin City Limits concert which featured as a PBS broadcast. The DVD is not for anyone hoping for a Greatest Hits stocking filler is it obviously features far more new tracks than thumping oldies, but is the perfect gift for any self-respecting fan.
 

Coupled with previous DVD Live at the Olympia, which was filmed during the creation of their album and the album Accelerate itself, we have a very rare insight into how REM create and work their musical magic. With X-Factor hopefuls butchering their classics, this will be a welcome change for our television sets.

REM Live From Austin TX is one to watch with the volume set to eardrum-popping levels. The group are currently working on their next album, and viewers of this live DVD will doubtless be anxiously awaiting its release.

The Special Features:

There are no special features on the disc which may disappoint some on first glance, but the gig itself is so intimate and gorgeously composed that it exists as a special feature in itself, as it is a side of the group rarely seen.

 

The Verdict:

REM are, without a doubt, one of the most influential groups our ears have been privy to, and to gain any insight into their creative process which is still going strong is a wonderful achievement.

REM Live From Austin TX captures a band at a pivotal moment in their career. Whilst the group have performed the super-human feat of managing to remain at the pinnacle of their career this performance shows their resistance to being focused on the past. REM are still making amazing music, and determined to do it in their own unique way. This DVD is evidence of how ground-breaking music can be, when it’s done right. It should be used as an instructional disc for new artists.

Ciara O'Brien