REM: Fables of the Reconstruction

We continue today with what is probably the most underrated album from R.E.M.’s IRS catalog, 1985’s Fables of the Reconstruction, criticized by the band and fans alike. Having to follow Reckoning is difficult enough, but getting caught between that album and Lifes Rich Pageant, which we’ll get to tomorrow, is probably the biggest reason fans fail to give Fables its due. As for the band, recalling the tensions that arose during recording (the most tenuous period of their career) is likely the cause of their distaste for the record.

Nevertheless, Fables, though it was recorded in London, has the band exploring their Southern roots in ways they had never before (and never would again). Southern mythology and the trains are present throughout. Specifically, a number of the songs (Old Man Kensey, Wendell Gee, for example) focus on eccentric individuals from their hometown of Athens. The eccentric individual, of course, being a common theme in most Southern literature and art.



The sound is darker, a reflection of the subject matter as well as the strained environment in the studio. While the album isn’t as consistently great as Murmur and Reckoning, its high points may be even higher than those of the other two records, as “Driver 8” and “Can’t Get There From Here” rank with the best work of the band’s career.

More Georgia trivia, from Wikipedia:

"Maps and Legends" is dedicated to the Reverend Howard Finster, "a man of vision and feeling—a fine example to all."

"Life and How To Live It", though not referencing him by name, is certainly about Georgian author Brivs Mekis that is alluded to in the live version on the And I Feel Fine... bonus disc.

Driver 8

Can’t Get There From Here