hennemusic

R.E.M. have just finished recording their 15th studio album, set for release next Spring.

The band worked on the new album with producer Jacknife Lee, who teamed up with R.E.M. on 2008’s “Accelerate” (he’s also worked with U2, Kasabian and Snow Patrol, among others).

R.E.M. and Lee had been recording in New Orleans at the Music Shed and in Berlin at the famed Hansa Studios, where several legendary albums, including David Bowie's "Heroes," U2's "Achtung Baby," and Iggy Pop's "Lust for Life" were made; additional recording and mixing was done at the venerable Blackbird Studio in Nashville.

Just two weeks ago, R.E.M. manager Bertis Downs shared an update with fans. “Band finishing work on the record in Nashville. All going well, songs sounding great; the band, ably assisted by Jacknife and team, in the homestretch of making what sounds to me like a great R.E.M. record. And between New Orleans, Berlin, and Nashville, you would be hard-pressed to find three more musical and inspiring places in which to work.”

Acclaimed photographer Anton Corbijn shot R.E.M. while they were in Nashville. “Having Anton Corbijn in town was pretty special, as it has been a while since any of us has seen Mills, Stipe, and Buck through Anton's eyes and lens,” wrote Downs. “And Nashville provided some pretty characterful backdrops. It was certainly memorable working with Anton on the eve of the release of his heralded new movie, THE AMERICAN, which opened at the top of the Box Office its first week-- go see it! More later, but that's about it for now. Can't wait for people to hear this one.”

R.E.M. – in the studio (2010)
Filmed by Michael Stipe

While fans await the new record, “R.E.M. Live From Austin, TX” - taken from the band’s appearance on Austin City Limits - is set for release October 26 (for details, click here).

R.E.M.