Behind the scenes in the crib and musings, Preview #3 for next CD Project

About This Footage

In a rare and intimate glimpse into their creative process, R.E.M.'s "Behind the scenes in the crib and musings" footage offers a unique perspective on the band's approach to music-making in 2020. This six-minute clip, part of a series previewing their Christmas project, is notable not only for its behind-the-scenes look but also for its juxtaposition of old and new.

At the time this footage was filmed, R.E.M. had been together for over four decades, having formed in Athens, Georgia in 1980. Their distinctive sound, characterized by Peter Buck's jangly guitar playing and Michael Stipe's enigmatic vocals, had captivated audiences worldwide. The band's decision to revisit traditional Christmas carols, such as "I Wonder As I Wander", a folk song from Appalachia circa 1933, was a deliberate attempt to blend the old with the new.

This clip is significant not only for its rarity but also for its context within R.E.M.'s discography. The band's Christmas project, released in 2020, marked a departure from their usual output, showcasing their ability to reimagine traditional music while maintaining their signature sound. By incorporating elements of folk and Appalachian music, R.E.M. demonstrated their willingness to experiment and push boundaries.

The footage itself is a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes moments, offering a glimpse into the band's creative process. Michael Stipe can be seen discussing the arrangement with his bandmates, while Peter Buck is shown playing the guitar in a dimly lit room. The clip's informal tone belies the care and attention to detail that R.E.M. brought to their music.

One of the most striking aspects of this footage is its juxtaposition of old and new. The traditional folk song "I Wonder As I Wander" is reimagined with R.E.M.'s signature sound, creating a unique blend of past and present. This fusion is reflective of the band's approach to music-making, which often combined disparate elements to create something innovative.

Viewers will take away from watching this clip a deeper understanding of R.E.M.'s creative process and their willingness to experiment with new sounds. The footage offers a rare glimpse into the band's behind-the-scenes moments, showcasing their camaraderie and dedication to their craft. As they revisit traditional Christmas carols, R.E.M. reminds us that music is a living, breathing entity that can be reinterpreted and reimagined in countless ways.

In this clip, we see a band at the height of their powers, still pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds even after four decades together. The footage is a testament to R.E.M.'s enduring legacy and their continued relevance in the music world. As we watch Michael Stipe discuss the arrangement with his bandmates, or Peter Buck play the guitar in a dimly lit room, we are reminded of the power of music to transcend time and circumstance.

The "Behind the scenes in the crib and musings" footage is a rare and precious glimpse into R.E.M.'s creative process, offering a unique perspective on their approach to music-making. As we watch this clip, we are reminded of the band's ability to blend old and new, creating something innovative and timeless in the process.

Curated from public records and music databases.