On The Download: R.E.M. - 'Live At The Olympia'

R.E.M. - On The Download Getty ImagesAccess Hollywood

By David Greenwald

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Early on in "Live at the Olympia," R.E.M.'s latest live release, frontman Michael Stipe warns the eager audience that the Dublin, Ireland gig is just a rehearsal. That may be, but it's for the better -- the two-disc, 39-track set showcases the college rock heroes-turned-stadium act at their most fresh and energetic. The band's 2008 release, "Accelerate," found the Athens, GA, musicians turning up the volume and picking up the pace again after a series of previous sleepier albums. And the new album's best tracks, from the show-opening "Living Well Is the Best Revenge" to "Man-Sized Wreath," help fuel a fiery set.

The heat extends to hits from across their lengthy catalog, such as "Driver 8," "Cuyahoga" and "Electrolite." However, without signature songs such as "Man on the Moon" or "Losing My Religion" in the setlist, the collection is less a live greatest hits than it is a statement of purpose from a band determined to stay as relevant as they have been successful. R.E.M. fans looking for signs of life in the veteran group need look no further than "Live at the Olympia."

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