R.E.M. - Accelerate

“We didn’t talk to each other for a couple of records—as friends or as bandmates,” admits Michael Stipe. Clearly, Stipe, Peter Buck and Mike Mills have kissed and made up, because Accelerate is the unified, energized sound of three musicians firing on all cylinders and racing through 11 short, snappy songs in 34 minutes flat. From the frenzied “Horse to Water” to the spirited “Living Well is the Best Revenge,” this is reminiscent of R.E.M. in its glory days: playing fast, defiant, inspired and just a little pissed off.

Apr. 1