Search - Rem :: Daysleeper / Emphysema

Aaron D. (midnightguinea) from PHILADELPHIA, PA
Reviewed on 10/21/2006...

NOT THE AMERICAN VERSION - Import version in slimline jewel case has third track "Why Not Smile (Oxford American Version)"

A very strong Maxi-Single from a fan's perspective

Brian Stuart | Boston, MA | 10/28/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This Maxi-Single is excellent from a fan's perspective, but I'm not sure how much it would say to even a casual fan or someone new to R.E.M.'s music. Hopefully, a lot, but the fan's appreciation will be on a very different level."Daysleeper" was the first single from the album, Up. A strong effort, with great lyrics relating a tale of a white-color worker giving his all, but getting no where. A very nice post-modern message, but the song has never really clicked with me, although I like the Beatles-esque close to the album. I don't care what Michael Stipe says, his band is very influenced by the Beatles, even if he isn't."Emphysema" is a funky little instrumental track, quite daring for a band with only two instrumentalists at this point. As a fan, I get a kick out of this song. R.E.M.'s instrumentals are always so wonderfully eclectic, and this is no exception. Still, most folks don't care for Rock instrumental, particularly experimental ones."Sad Professor" is a live, studio recording of one of the best songs from Up. Its even better here. The very quiet feeling is very well suited to the song. The piano is absolutely a joy to listen to, and perfectly matchs Michael Stipe's singing. The song has a very organic feel. It is not all quiet, nor all loud. Very emotional, but also very introspective. The lyrics are amazing, with effective story-telling as well as underlying meanings.The version of "Why Not Smile" you will find here is just SO much better than the version found on the album, it, alone, can demand this single's purchase. The album track had a cluttered trance-like feel, but here you hear the simplicty this song really demands. A love song in its own way, if not a romantic one, it has such a beautiful little message that comes across so well with the beautiful singing and simple acoustic guitar. An organ and electric guitar also sneak in at times to further adorn the recording, but never detract from it. The final organ fade at the end is incredible. I love this song, and I love this version. If you are an R.E.M. fan, I'm sure you'll want to hear it."

Absolutely beautiful!!!!

Brian Stuart | 12/07/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Daysleeper" is a perfect modern-day anthem, but the single has much more to offer. The versions of "Sad Proffessor" and "Why Not Smile" are stunningly beautiful and sparse. They fill you with a sense of moody calm. "Emphysema" is my least favorite but still utterly R.E.M. and a catchy little tune. My advice? Buy this! It's that simple. If you have any interest in R.E.M. or any quality music for that matter, you deserve this single."