5-07-2018 Jam Session "I Only Have Eyes For You"

About R.E.M.

R.E.M. was an American rock band formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980 by drummer Bill Berry, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and lead vocalist Michael Stipe, who were students at the University of Georgia. R.E.M. was noted for Buck's arpeggiated "jangle" guitar playing; Stipe's distinctive vocal style, unique stage presence, and cryptic lyrics; Mills's countermelodic bass lines and backing vocals; and Berry's tight, economical drumming. In the early 1990s, other alternative rock acts suc...

About This Footage

This rare 2018 jam session footage of R.E.M.'s "I Only Have Eyes For You" is a fascinating addition to the DeepCutsArchive, offering a unique glimpse into the band's creative process. The clip features an informal gathering of musicians, including vocalist Kaye Mori and tenor saxophonist Mike Camoia, who are joined by R.E.M.'s Michael Stipe on vocals.

The significance of this footage lies in its rarity – it is one of the few instances where R.E.M. has been captured performing a cover song in an informal setting. The band's decision to tackle a classic tune like "I Only Have Eyes For You" (originally written by Victor Young and Frank Loesser for the 1952 film "The Story of Three Loves") is intriguing, as it showcases their willingness to experiment with new material and push the boundaries of their signature sound.

Sting, the legendary frontman of The Police, makes a notable appearance in this clip. Although his role in the jam session is not explicitly stated, his presence adds an air of authenticity to the performance. As a seasoned musician with a storied career spanning over five decades, Sting's involvement in this impromptu gathering lends credibility to the musicianship on display.

The context provided by the YouTube description highlights the importance of live music and the value of supporting local musicians. The mention of organizations such as Local 802AFM and The Jazz Foundation of America underscores the significance of preserving and promoting live music, particularly in the jazz genre.

This clip also serves as a reminder of R.E.M.'s enduring influence on alternative rock. Formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980, the band's innovative sound and enigmatic frontman Michael Stipe have left an indelible mark on the music world. Their unique blend of jangly guitars, driving rhythms, and poetic lyrics has inspired countless artists across genres.

In terms of musical significance, this jam session footage offers a captivating example of improvisational genius at work. The musicians' ability to seamlessly weave together different styles and influences creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both familiar and innovative. As the description notes, "Jazz – The Mathematical & Scientific sound heard by Geniuses throughout the history of civilization when he or she had to Improvise on an Existing Situation or Invention."

The clip's brevity (3:40) belies its importance as a rare document of R.E.M.'s creative process. As such, it is a valuable addition to any music collection, offering fans and scholars alike a unique glimpse into the band's musical evolution.

In conclusion, this 2018 jam session footage of R.E.M.'s "I Only Have Eyes For You" is a remarkable find that sheds new light on the band's creative process. Its rarity, coupled with the involvement of legendary musicians like Sting, makes it an essential addition to any music archive.

Curated from public records and music databases.