LogFAQs > #956112651

117. R.E.M. Losing My Religion (1991)
from the album Out of Time

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwtdhWltSIg

Key lyrics:
I think I thought I saw you try

Changing up traditional rock instrumentation can go a long way. With Losing My Religion, R.E.M. built a song around the mandolin and acoustic guitar, creating a soft yet striking sound in an era where rock would soon be defined by a messy edge. Michael Stipe shows the gentlest arrangement can contain a passionate fury. This is a man distantly in love, too afraid to speak up, stewing in his dissatisfaction. He looks for any sign of mutual interest, but also knows any hint is his own delusion. With a harder sound, this could have been a stalker song. Instead, R.E.M. keeps it light and therefore relatable who hasnt longed for someone they know to be unattainable?

A unique instrument can help a song elevate a standard element. The mandolin is not doing anything particularly special in its own terms, but it helps sustain an unusual rolling motion. This helps place Losing My Religion in a constant state of familiar action, even as the other elements shift around. What would usually be a backing element is placed in the spotlight the trick R.E.M. pulls off here is using a distinct sound to redirect our attention. The result is something as introspective as it is fiery, never once losing its cool.

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My top 100 games (with write-ups): https://foolfantastic.com/top-100-video-games-project/