Murmur

R.E.M.'s debut studio album, "Murmur," released on April 12, 1983, under IRS Records, is a groundbreaking work that defied the musical trends of its time. This 44-minute journey through jangle pop and alternative rock introduces R.E.M. as a band that was uniquely out of step with the mainstream sounds of 1983, offering a fresh and enigmatic listening experience. The album features iconic tracks like "Radio Free Europe," "Talk About the Passion," "Perfect Circle," and "Sitting Still," which helped fuel the rise of college radio and established R.E.M. as a force to be reckoned with.

Recorded in January and February 1983 at Reflection Sound Studio in Charlotte, North Carolina, and mastered at Sterling Sound, "Murmur" captures the raw energy and innovative spirit of the band. The album's cover art, featuring a kudzu-covered ravine, reflects the band's mysterious and evocative approach to their music. With its distinctive sound and introspective lyrics, "Murmur" remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners decades after its release.