AMG Review of Songs That Are Live

Steven McDonald
All Music Guide

It's unlikely that R.E.M. will ever need to release a live album -- at this point they've released enough live versions of various songs that even a live box set would probably be a redundant effort. This four-song EP serves up versions of "Crush With Eyeliner" and "Tongue" from two June shows in Detroit, "I Don't Sleep, I Dream" from a 1994 #Saturday Night Live outing, and a 1992 version of "Country Feedback" from a gig in Athens, GA. Unsatisfying only because it's way too brief, the four cuts here showcase the band in fine form, with Michael Stipe singing beautifully (and even comprehensibly, these days). Not essential, but a nice curio.