REM New Adventures

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REM New Adventures

Formed in 2014 the band was drawn together from a seemingly imperfect circle of acquaintances and friends from the local gigging scene. A few old band mates and some R.E.M. fanatics were assembled in a dingy rehearsal space near Southampton which would have made the old church on Oconee Street in Athens, Georgia, where R.E.M. were born, seem fairly palatial. The hope was that some glimmer of a functioning band, with an eye for doing something just a little bit different might appear. On the first take we played "Strange" by The Wire, (which appeared on R.E.M.'s 5th LP "Document") and decided that if we played it like that for evermore, we'd be perfectly happy. Precedent set.

In a few short months the band emerged onto the local scene, and began to slowly morph into the band you find now. Some faces have changed along the way, each one making their mark, however small. R.E.M. never stood still, they constantly pushed towards new horizons and changed with the times, and it's always been the same for us.

Our lineup now however is possibly the most professional and coherent that it's ever been, playing on average twice a month at venues and music festivals along the South Coast of England, and doing what it's always done best, remembering and celebrating R.E.M. by playing the music we love, live.

The Band In Detail

Joe (Michael Stipe)
Joe is the newest member of the band, having joined summer 2016. Rock star credentials aren't everything, but in his typically modest way, he has some stories from his 30+ years of gigging, including airplay with John Peel, support slots for The Jam, and a live performance on Channel 4. Joe's pure vocal ability have proven in a very short time to be a perfect addition to the band, and his musical ability, insights and knowledge are proving invaluable.

Jon (Peter Buck)
Jon is the only member of the band left from the initial rehearsals. The truest and longest standing R.E.M. fanatic, Jon's love of the band started in the late 80's with the "Document" LP, it's no wonder Jon's guitar style developed to mimic Peter Buck's before REMbrandt was even conceived. Getting the right sounds to properly furnish the songs is a constant pursuit, so it's the right gear for the right job, Rickenbacker guitar, VOX AC30 amplifier and a ProCo Rat distortion. Jon has also played several times with another, nationally touring R.E.M. tribute band.

James (Mike Mills)
James was a find. Originally our dep. bassist, he very quickly gained a permanent role through his sheer enthusiasm and ability. James's experience singing and playing on the local circuit with professional function bands, and the commitment he shares with Jon towards the correct equipment and musical accuracy makes him ideal for his role.

Jeff (BIll Berry)
Anybody who's been in a band will know that there's drummers, and there's drummers. Sometimes it's not what you play, it's what you don't. Dynamics, control and subtlety all play their part, particularly with R.E.M, and the ability to do some truly stunning, soaring backing vocals doesn't hurt either.

Chris (Scott McCaughey/ Peter Holsapple)
Traditionally, R.E.M. are known as a four piece, but watch virtually any live R.E.M. DVD from the late 80's onwards, and you'll spot that extra musician. The one that helps turn the studio magic into a live performance, that's Chris's role. Somewhat jokingly referred to as "Dr. Rock" within the band, you will rarely find a quieter, more unassuming man, until it's time to step on stage.

Line-up

Lead vocals, harmonica
Lead guitar, acoustic guitar, mandolin and backing vocals
Bass and backing vocals
Drums and backing vocals
Rhythm guitar

Extra Line-up(s)

The band can perform as 4 piece without our rhythm guitarist (like original REM live lineup) Acoustic options available upon request.

Also included

Mackie Mixer to SRM 450 active speakers (4 available) plus 2 x Mackie Thump TH15a and personal monitors. Bass bins available if required. Lighting 5nr free standing LED colour wash, 3nr LED water effect backdrop lighting, 1 x laser, 1 set REM illuminated letters.

Location

South East based and will travel to these areas: South East, South West, Midlands.

Previous Clients

Greene King Breweries
WoolStock Festivals
Various Social Clubs, Pubs & Charity Events

What a fantastic tribute to REM, you guys rock! Thank you for keeping the music alive! – Ber Murphy

Thanks to the band for a great night out enjoyed by all. – The West End Brewery

Such attention to detail a real tribute to REM. well done you are great.

You guys were brill, such intensity – Maypole Festival

Huge thanks to the band who were amazing. We raised £150 on the night for the charity. – Unique Charities

A really fun night out. They have a great set including REM's most popular and well known songs, some less well known gems, and also songs that REM covered in their live gigs to provide some variety. A highlight for me was "Strange Currencies" from the album Monster, which was just beautiful. Really great musicians, and I also enjoyed the banter between songs!

Fantastic band, very professional, working hard to be as close to REM as possible. A pleasure to work with.

Loved the last gig I was at, but was mystified & fascinated by all the toy Dinos (had to have that explained to me). Joe is a hugely energetic front man ( small stages are not for him ).

I have never seen a band I wanted to re-book more – The Bellemoor

An amazing tribute to REM, can't get enough of listening to these guys. Fantastic performers.

Great tribute band - I am a fan of the original band's music and I think they do a great job in keeping REM's music alive. Hope to see more of you this coming year.

Have never been a fan of the original band; this is a rare case of a tribute outfit being more entertaining than the real thing.

I never got to see REM live, until tonight – Pelham Stage