686. R.E.M. - monster

This was Berry's last proper album with the band ('New Adventures' was recorded on the road and therefore in my opinion less calculated) and what an odd album it turned out to be. I remember many people were excited for the release of this record, as was I, and after a couple of listens I was a bit perplexed... the band sounded heavier, louder, dirtier, more rock n' roll... I tried to really get into this album, listening to it often (it takes me back instantly) but I never felt like the sound was a good fit for REM - they didn't need to be grungy to be good...

6.8 out of 10