About This Footage
In a bizarre juxtaposition, R.E.M.'s name is attached to a 10:17 clip of World of Tanks gameplay on YouTube. The video's title, "World of Tanks » M48 Patton, Quick one on Pearl River," suggests a lighthearted, casual gaming session. But what makes this footage notable is the band's involvement.
R.E.M. was at the height of their popularity in 2011, having just released their critically acclaimed album Collapse into Now. The band's members were known for their eclectic interests and hobbies outside of music. Peter Buck, the band's guitarist, has been an avid gamer since the early days of console gaming. It's likely that Buck was involved in creating this World of Tanks clip.
The fact that R.E.M.'s name is attached to a YouTube video about a popular online multiplayer game may seem incongruous with their reputation as a serious rock band. However, it highlights the band members' willingness to engage with popular culture and experiment with new forms of creative expression. The use of Metric's "Artificial Nocturne" (Love Thy Brother Remix) as intro music adds an additional layer of interest, showcasing the band's taste in electronic music.
The clip itself is a rare glimpse into R.E.M.'s downtime during their final years together. It's a candid look at the band members' personalities and interests outside of their musical endeavors. The video's lighthearted tone and Buck's enthusiastic commentary provide a refreshing contrast to the band's more serious work.
The inclusion of a World of Tanks gameplay clip on R.E.M.'s YouTube channel may seem like an anomaly, but it speaks to the band's commitment to exploring new creative avenues. By releasing this video, R.E.M. was able to connect with fans in a unique way and showcase their members' diverse interests.
This footage is significant because it offers a glimpse into R.E.M.'s behind-the-scenes activities during a pivotal moment in their career. It humanizes the band and highlights their willingness to engage with popular culture. By watching this clip, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of R.E.M.'s personalities and creative processes outside of their music.
The video's brevity belies its significance. In just over 10 minutes, it conveys the band members' enthusiasm for gaming and experimentation. This is not simply a promotional stunt or a one-off novelty; it's a genuine expression of the band's interests and values. By releasing this clip, R.E.M. demonstrated their commitment to creative exploration and their willingness to push boundaries.
The lasting impression from watching this clip will be the sense of camaraderie and shared enthusiasm among the band members. It humanizes them and provides a refreshing respite from the often-serious tone of their music.
Curated from public records and music databases.