R.E.M. released Automatic For The People shortly after I graduated high school. I was moody and melancholy and fell in love with it right away; it really seemed to fit me. As I became less moody and melancholy, my affection for this record hasn't waned; it's still in my top five, maybe even still numero uno. I've been loving it for a long time.
A great record should have a great closing song. I like them to be just as strong as the beginning of the record, but in a different way. I like for the styles, the tempo, and the delivery to all be different. This record has two great closers. The first song is the hug from that person you had the crush on. The person's touch that you looked forward to because you weren't sure if you were ever going to get the kiss you really wanted. You always lingered with that one at the end of the night. It was just a hug, but still a bit euphoric. Now imagine there's a kiss that comes after. Surprising and a bit overwhelming, but damn if that wasn't the greatest moment of your life. That's song two.
I've really built both of these songs up, and maybe you're imagining me needing a cigarette every time I come to the end of this album. However, I assure you that time spent listening to these tracks is time well spent. The first is called "Nightswimming," and the video below is the one that I found that wasn't live and had the best audio. The slide show isn't bad and isn't great but doesn't distract from the listening experience.
The second is called "Find the River." The video I found is from a live performance, but is of fairly good quality. I hope you enjoy both!
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2 comments:
This post made me swoon. I'd say, "Don't even get me started on the bliss that is 'Nightswimming'", but it's too late. I loved Automatic for the People so much I kept the cassette (case & all) until last year; even though 1) it was played so much that I wore it out, and 2) I haven't had a cassette player since '98.
You totally get me!
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