To mark the 40th anniversary of 'Fables of the Reconstruction,' this article ranks all 16 albums by the band REM, from their debut 'Murmur' to their final 'Collapse into Now.' The ranking assesses their varied discography, highlighting masterpieces, commercial successes, and less-loved works, and discusses their evolution from enigmatic college rock to mainstream superstardom and beyond.
The ones we love: all 16 of REM’s albums – ranked!
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️To mark the 40th anniversary of 'Fables of the Reconstruction,' this article ranks all 16 albums by the band REM, from their debut 'Murmur' to their final 'Collapse into Now.' The ranking assesses their varied discography, highlighting masterpieces, commercial successes, and less-loved works, and discusses their evolution from enigmatic college rock to mainstream superstardom and beyond.
- 1 1985: Fables of the Reconstruction released (40th anniversary in 2025)
- 2 1997: Bill Berry departed from REM
- 3 2007: REM Live album released
- 4 2025-06-05: Article published
- Provides a comprehensive guide to REM's discography
- Potentially sparking renewed interest in their music
What: An article ranking and reviewing all 16 albums by the band REM, from their debut to their final release, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of 'Fables of the Reconstruction.'
When: Published 2025-06-05. 'Fables of the Reconstruction' turns 40 (meaning it was released in 1985). Bill Berry's departure in 1997.
Where: null
Why: To celebrate and critically assess REM's discography on the occasion of a significant album anniversary, providing a ranked list for fans and music enthusiasts.
How: The article provides a brief review and ranking for each of REM's 16 albums, discussing their musical style, commercial performance, and critical reception, often including quotes from band members.