CharlieG Now, I'm no fan of tribute bands but this was brilliant. They weren't trying to be REM, they were paying a respectful tribute to a band they loved. The actor Michael Shannon has a much more gravelly voice than Stipe and his vocal inflections are, noticeably different but he delivers the songs really well.
The musicians, led by Jason Narducy on guitar and backing vocals, were outstanding. Narducy managing to produce Mike Mills levels of harmonies. Drummer, Jon Wurster actually toured with REM, latterly, and he and Narducy are former members of Superchunk and current bass and drums in Bob Mould's band. Their musical understanding of each other was evident in this very tight performance.
Fables of the Reconstruction was played in its entirety, followed by a selection of other REM tracks. Radio Free Europe, Pretty Persuation and a version of the Velvets Femme Fatale ( a REM live staple) were standouts.
Can't recommend them highly enough.
