R.E.M. by Stipe

R.E.M. formed in 1980, in Athens, Georgia and by the mid-nineties earned the tagline ‘the biggest band on the planet’ from the music press.

They pioneered the alternative rock scene with relentless touring and a distinctive sound and entered the 90s mainstream without compromising their artistic vision. They remain as relevant today as ever.

Their music is instantly recognisable: ringing guitar lines, tasteful and clinical drumming, melodic bass, and sublime harmonies coupled with poetic (and political) lead vocals.

Continuing as a trio after the departure of drummer Bill Berry in 1997, R.E.M. broke up in September 2011, just as they had started: as friends. They have ruled out ever re-forming. R.E.M. by Stipe, the Definitive Tribute reflect the core of R.E.M.: four highly-experienced musicians who embody Berry, Buck, Mills and Stipe, capturing the presence and performances of the band.

As huge fans of the band they are committed to holding true to the sound and overall aesthetic of R.E.M., so that fans, old and new, can experience the magic of hearing these songs played live with care, conviction, and affection. They are joined on stage, as R.E.M. were, by additional musicians to help bring album tracks to life on stage. Each set-list is different, but every show celebrates this timeless music for fans of R.E.M.

Here is just a sample of what fans say about R.E.M. by Stipe, the Definitive Tribute: Love, love, love this band; absolutely brilliant! For live R.E.M. music, then this is a must see.

(Keri)

The next best thing to experiencing the real band live again.

(Cara)

If you love R.E.M. then Stipe are a must- see. Always deliver a great and diverse set list.

(Richard)

The first time I saw you play I was genuinely blown away, that’s how good you sound. Looking forward to the next show in Dublin.

(John)

If you miss R.E.M. (or if you never saw them live) then Stipe are the next best thing to R.E.M. being back on tour.

Stipe are recognised as the definitive tribute to R.E.M., the band from Athens, Georgia who are widely credited as pioneers of alternative rock, influencing countless bands who would follow, including Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Radiohead. R.E.M remain a model for young musicians everywhere: a band who always did things on their own terms, a band committed to doing the right thing for each other (such as splitting royalties equally), and never compromising on their artistic independence. They called it a day, on their own terms, in 2011, and have repeatedly ruled out ever reuniting. Having played to tens of thousands of people all over the UK and Europe, and not least to Michael Stipe himself on the ‘One Show’ (Michael described them as ‘awesome’), Stipe are a professional six-piece, who, as huge fans of the band, take the music (if not themselves) seriously. Iconic songs such as ‘Losing My Religion’ and ‘Everybody Hurts’ are recreated note-for-note, while Richard Southern’s studied vocal pays homage to Michael Stipe’s unique voice and enigmatic performance style. While all shows feature the familiar hits, every setlist is different. Deeper cuts from R.E.M.’s peerless back-catalogue, such as ‘Talk About The Passion’ or ‘Don’t’ Go Back To Rockville’ will delight fans of the band, and is an opportunity for any fan of great music to hear this timeless material played live with love and care.

Whether you’re a long-time or more casual fan, or just someone who loves great music, Stipe are a must-see tribute band who capture the essence of R.E.M., one of the defining bands of our times.

Host or Publisher The White Horse