About This Footage
R.E.M.'s 2018 appearance at Bobby's Idle Hour in Nashville is a fascinating anomaly in the band's discography. The clip, which clocks in at 5:37, shows the Athens quartet performing an upbeat country-rock number, "High Time" (You Quit Your Low Down Ways), alongside Billy Ray and Lora Reynolds.
At this point in their career, R.E.M. was well-established as a major force in alternative rock. Their critically-acclaimed album, "Automatic for the People", had been released just two years prior, and they were riding high on the success of singles like "Man on the Moon" and "Everybody Hurts". However, this clip reveals a different side to the band - one that is more rooted in country and Americana. The performance at Bobby's Idle Hour was part of an evening celebrating Billy Ray Reynolds' new album, "Country Music Love Affair", and it's clear that R.E.M. was happy to trade in their usual jangly soundscapes for a more rootsy, honky-tonk vibe.
What makes this clip rare is its context - R.E.M. rarely played country-infused music live, and when they did, it was usually as a nod to their early influences rather than a full-fledged exploration of the genre. This performance, however, suggests that the band members were genuinely enjoying themselves, and that they were willing to push beyond their usual boundaries in order to connect with an audience.
The clip itself is notable for its energy - R.E.M.'s Michael Stipe is his usual charismatic self, while Peter Buck's guitar playing takes on a more country-tinged flavor. The overall effect is infectious, and it's easy to see why this performance was such a highlight of the evening.
One of the most striking aspects of this clip is its juxtaposition with R.E.M.'s later work. In 2018, the band had already announced that they would be disbanding in 2011, after releasing their final studio album, "Collapse into Now". This performance, then, serves as a fascinating footnote to their career - a reminder that even at the height of their success, R.E.M. was always willing to experiment and push boundaries.
Watching this clip, it's clear that R.E.M.'s appearance at Bobby's Idle Hour was more than just a one-off novelty - it was an opportunity for the band to connect with a different audience, and to explore new sounds in a relaxed setting. The performance is full of joy and spontaneity, and it's a testament to the band's willingness to take risks and try new things.
As we watch R.E.M.'s country-infused performance at Bobby's Idle Hour, we're reminded that even the most iconic bands can surprise us with their versatility and creativity. This clip is a rare gem in the band's discography - a chance to see them outside of their usual comfort zone, and to experience their music in a new and unexpected way.
Curated from public records and music databases.
