In View, In Time
Posted by: Bob Edwards on 07 November 2003
All--
As the Forum's resident REM fan a couple of words are in order regarding their new CD In Time and their new DVD In View.
In Time is a loose "best of" type album with a couple of new songs added. While the song list for an album like this can always be criticized--why not this song, etc--overall I think it is a pretty good collection of their years at Warner. That spans 15 years--from 1988 to 2003 and begins with the album "Green." The two new songs are "Bad Day" and "Animal." Both are good, though not up to the standard of their very best work. Some of the ordering is phenomenal--"What's the Frequency, Kenneth?" is followed by "All the way to Reno," which I think is inspired.
The new DVD contains the videos of all the songs on In Time, commentary from the band in between, and some bonus videos and live tracks. I'm not a huge fan of videos, and I think some of them a bit hit or miss. It is interesting to hear not only some alternate versions of songs but also some of the band's comments on them.
Finally, In Time is available as a special edition set which includes a second CD of alternates and live versions. It is worth having just for the version of "The Lifting," which is the most beautiful rock song I've heard in a LONG time. Also has a "funk" version of Drive, which is both great and funny.
So: the CD is definitely an easy recommendation, esp. the special edition. The DVD--if you're into videos, sure, if not, just get the CD.
Best,
Bob
As the Forum's resident REM fan a couple of words are in order regarding their new CD In Time and their new DVD In View.
In Time is a loose "best of" type album with a couple of new songs added. While the song list for an album like this can always be criticized--why not this song, etc--overall I think it is a pretty good collection of their years at Warner. That spans 15 years--from 1988 to 2003 and begins with the album "Green." The two new songs are "Bad Day" and "Animal." Both are good, though not up to the standard of their very best work. Some of the ordering is phenomenal--"What's the Frequency, Kenneth?" is followed by "All the way to Reno," which I think is inspired.
The new DVD contains the videos of all the songs on In Time, commentary from the band in between, and some bonus videos and live tracks. I'm not a huge fan of videos, and I think some of them a bit hit or miss. It is interesting to hear not only some alternate versions of songs but also some of the band's comments on them.
Finally, In Time is available as a special edition set which includes a second CD of alternates and live versions. It is worth having just for the version of "The Lifting," which is the most beautiful rock song I've heard in a LONG time. Also has a "funk" version of Drive, which is both great and funny.
So: the CD is definitely an easy recommendation, esp. the special edition. The DVD--if you're into videos, sure, if not, just get the CD.
Best,
Bob