Listen via: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Amazon Podcasts | Pocket Casts | Radio Public | RSS
R.E.M.’s Mike Mills catches up with Kyle Meredith to chat about the 25th anniversary of Up, trying out a new electronic-based style, and more.
Related Video
The bassist-songwriter discusses the difficult circumstances in which Up was created and how the band found the record’s ultimate sound. Mills then explains the stories behind songs like “Sad Professor,” “Daysleeper,” “Hope,” and “Airportman.” Of the latter track, he says “there was a sad sweetness to it. I love it. It’s one of my favorite songs we ever did.”
Mills then explains why the band decided not to include demos on the reissue of Up, though he confirms that there are “plenty of unheard songs in the vault.” He also touches on the band’s recent resurgence of popularity, attracting covers from the likes of The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz and Soccer Mommy, as well as a notable sync placement on The Bear. Mills also shares a little-known story about remixing their debut album, Murmur, after the label gave it too much of an ’80s sound.
Listen to Mike Mills chat about Up and more above, or watch below via YouTube. Please also take a moment to like, review, and subscribe to KMW wherever you get your podcasts, and keep up to date with all our series by following the Consequence Podcast Network.