R.E.M. | B

The alternative rock band, R.E.M. refuses to fall back on their word for their 15th studio album, Collapse Into Now. Doing exactly what their album title says, R.E.M. dives right into today's music scene and fits in as much as they did when they started in 1980. Vets in the music industry, R.E.M. released Collapse Into Now with more confidence than ever. Understanding what it takes to release a hit single and a thorough album, they immediately ask for respect and acknowledgement from today's alternative bands. On the second track of the album, "All for the Best," R.E.M.'s lead singer, Michael Stipe, sings, "I'll give it one more time, I'll show the kids how to do it fine, fine, fine, fine." Once criticized for his mumbled intonation, Stipe sings through every word with potent clarity.

Fastening to their signature style, Peter Buck still wails on his guitar, Mike Mills nails his harmonies, and Stipe reveals his every emotion with his arching voice. Songs ranging from haunting ballads to strong rock anthems prove the trio's versatility — flaunting their expansive sound.

Focusing mainly on the theme of time, their haunting ballad, "Walk it Back," quickly becomes an album favorite. Another listener favorite is the fun but quirky "Alligator Aviator Autopilot Antimatter." As Stipe croons, "I feel like an alligator/Climbing up the escalator/I feel strong," the Canadian electro-pop artist Peaches adds a harmony worthy enough to make you jump out of your seat.

Experience has aided the group's continuation of musical endeavors in creating an overall feel-good-album. R.E.M. played a crucial part in the emergence of the alternative rock genre, and Collapse Into It Now fits perfectly into the mold they helped create.