The Making of Lifes Rich Pageant by R.E.M.

Introduction

Released on 28th July 1986, R.E.M.’s Lifes Rich Pageant marked a pivotal moment in the band’s career. The album, produced by Don Gehman, signalled a shift towards a more accessible sound. R.E.M. were emerging from their early jangle pop roots into a band capable of mainstream appeal. Despite this transition, they maintained their distinctive alternative rock edge.

This article delves into the making of Lifes Rich Pageant, exploring its genesis, recording process, commercial success, and legacy. We’ll also examine the album’s tracks, lyrics, and the band’s promotional strategies.

As Mike Mills noted, “Don is good at layering things so there can be a lot of things going on but you can still hear everything.” This approach helped the album achieve a sound that was both complex and accessible, solidifying R.E.M.’s place in music history.

The Genesis of “Lifes Rich Pageant”

By 1986, R.E.M. had already established themselves as a leading force in the alternative rock scene. Their previous album, Fables of the Reconstruction, had set the stage for what was to come. However, the band sought a departure from its murky sound. They wanted something clearer and more direct.

The decision to work with Don Gehman, known for his work with John Mellencamp, was crucial. His production style was more polished and accessible, aligning with the band’s new direction. The recording sessions took place at Belmont Mall Studio in Indiana, a location chosen for its state-of-the-art facilities.

R.E.M. comprised Michael Stipe (vocals), Peter Buck (guitar), Mike Mills (bass, vocals), and Bill Berry (drums). Each member brought their unique flair to the album, contributing to its rich tapestry of sound.

The album’s title, inspired by a line from the film A Shot in the Dark, reflects the band’s whimsical approach. The cover art, featuring Bill Berry and a pair of bison, alludes to the album’s environmental themes.

Recording Process

Recording Lifes Rich Pageant was an innovative process for R.E.M. The sessions, held in April and May 1986, marked the first time the band worked with producer Don Gehman. His meticulous approach involved layering sounds and crafting arrangements that highlighted the band’s strengths.

Belmont Mall Studio, owned by John Mellencamp, offered cutting-edge technology. While specific hardware details are not available, it’s likely that the studio featured industry-standard equipment of the time, such as Neumann microphones and SSL mixing desks.

Gehman’s influence extended beyond the technical aspects. He encouraged the band to explore new musical directions, resulting in a sound that was both innovative and familiar. This was a turning point for R.E.M., setting the stage for their future success.

Gehman, known for producing John Mellencamp’s Scarecrow and Uh-Huh, brought his expertise to the table. His ability to blend rock sensibilities with pop accessibility was instrumental in shaping the album’s sound.

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, Lifes Rich Pageant achieved commercial success, reaching number 21 on the Billboard 200. It was the band’s highest-charting album at the time, marking a significant step towards mainstream recognition.

The album sold 660,000 copies worldwide, earning gold certification in the United States. It also received critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its clarity and thematic depth. The singles “Fall on Me” and “Superman” contributed to its popularity.

The album’s success was bolstered by its environmental themes, which resonated with listeners during the 1980s. It was a time of growing awareness about ecological issues, and R.E.M.’s thoughtful lyrics struck a chord.

In 1986, several other notable albums were released, including Slippery When Wet by Bon Jovi and Master of Puppets by Metallica. These releases highlighted the diverse musical landscape of the year.

• Slippery When Wet by Bon Jovi
• Master of Puppets by Metallica
• Somewhere in Time by Iron Maiden
• Turbo by Judas Priest

Despite fierce competition, Lifes Rich Pageant stood out for its unique blend of rock and thoughtful lyricism. It received accolades for its innovative approach and remains a beloved entry in R.E.M.’s discography.

Track Analysis

Lifes Rich Pageant featured a diverse array of tracks, each contributing to the album’s cohesive yet varied sound. The singles “Fall on Me” and “Superman” were particularly noteworthy, showcasing the band’s ability to craft memorable melodies with meaningful lyrics.

The album’s tracklist is a testament to R.E.M.’s songwriting prowess, with each song offering a unique perspective. Below is a detailed breakdown of each track, including length and writing credits.

Note: Tracks marked with * were released as singles.

“Fall on Me” reached number 5 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks, while “Superman” also gained significant airplay.

Song Meaning and Lyrics

The lyrics of Lifes Rich Pageant reflect R.E.M.’s commitment to addressing social and environmental issues. “Fall on Me” is a prime example, with its poignant commentary on ecological degradation.

According to Michael Stipe, the song began as a metaphor for acid rain but evolved into a broader reflection on oppression. Its imagery, such as “buying the sky,” highlights the destructive impact of human activity on nature.

Meanwhile, “Superman” offers a lighter, more playful take on themes of empowerment and self-assurance. Originally by The Clique, R.E.M.’s version adds a unique twist with Mike Mills on lead vocals.

Both songs exemplify the band’s ability to blend catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics, a hallmark of their enduring appeal.

Touring and Promotion of Lifes Rich Pageant

R.E.M. embarked on the Pageantry Tour to promote Lifes Rich Pageant, performing across North America from September to November 1986. The tour featured a mix of new tracks and fan favourites, drawing enthusiastic crowds.

The band employed various promotional strategies, including music videos for the singles “Fall on Me” and “Superman.” These efforts helped the album reach a wider audience and solidify R.E.M.’s reputation as a dynamic live act.

During the tour, R.E.M. shared the stage with acts like The Golden Palominos, further enhancing their appeal. Notable performances included a benefit concert in Athens, Georgia, showcasing the band’s commitment to their roots.

Influences and Legacy

Lifes Rich Pageant drew inspiration from a variety of musical influences, including folk, punk, and pop. This eclectic mix is evident in the album’s diverse sound, which resonated with both critics and fans.

The album’s legacy is reflected in its impact on subsequent artists, who cite R.E.M.’s innovative approach as a major influence. The band’s ability to blend social commentary with accessible melodies set a new standard for alternative rock.

Released in 1986, the album emerged during a year marked by significant cultural and global events. The Chernobyl disaster and the Challenger explosion were among the year’s defining moments, highlighting the need for environmental awareness.

In the music world, 1986 saw the release of iconic albums like Master of Puppets by Metallica and Slippery When Wet by Bon Jovi. These releases underscored the diverse musical landscape of the time.

Five Things about Lifes Rich Pageant

Here are five intriguing facts about Lifes Rich Pageant that underscore its significance in R.E.M.’s discography.

Media and Television Usage

Songs from Lifes Rich Pageant have appeared in various media, highlighting their enduring appeal. Below is a list of notable placements.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Upon release, Lifes Rich Pageant received positive reviews for its polished production and thoughtful lyrics. Critics praised the album’s ability to balance accessibility with depth.

Over the years, the album has been recognised as a pivotal moment in R.E.M.’s career. It marked their transition from indie darlings to mainstream contenders, setting the stage for future success.

After Lifes Rich Pageant

Following the release of Lifes Rich Pageant, R.E.M. continued to build on their success. Their next album, Document, propelled them further into the mainstream, achieving platinum status.

In the years that followed, R.E.M. experienced lineup changes and shifts in musical direction. Despite these challenges, they maintained their reputation as one of the most influential bands of their time.

As of October 2023, R.E.M. remains disbanded, but their legacy endures. The band members have pursued various solo projects, continuing to contribute to the music industry.

Remasters and Reissues

The 25th Anniversary Edition of Lifes Rich Pageant was released on 12th July 2011, offering fans a remastered version of the original album along with previously unreleased recordings.

This edition includes a second disc titled “The Athens Demos,” featuring early versions of the album’s tracks. The remastered audio enhances the album’s clarity, providing a fresh listening experience.

Conclusion

Lifes Rich Pageant remains a vital entry in R.E.M.’s discography. Its blend of accessible melodies and thoughtful lyrics continues to resonate with listeners, cementing its place in music history.

The album’s impact is evident in its influence on subsequent artists and its enduring relevance in today’s musical landscape. R.E.M.’s ability to address social and environmental issues through their music is a testament to their lasting legacy.

Further Reading

• The Making of Superunknown by Soundgarden (Blog Article)
• The Making of Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park (Blog Article)
• Green Day – Dookie (Podcast)
• Wikipedia page for “Lifes Rich Pageant”
• Official R.E.M. website
• Universal Music Group (Record label)

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