October's 2nd-most anticipated event

Finally, some news I can get excited about...

R.E.M. will release their thirteenth album in October, just before the presidential election. And Michael Stipe wouldn't have it any other way.

"For better or worse, the current state of the world has had a profound impact on the way I'm writing," says the singer, who is in the midst of finishing up the record in Miami with guitarist Peter Buck and bassist Mike Mills. "But this isn't a downer of a record. Even the most depressing R.E.M. song is going to have a glimmer of hope in it. That's just me, I can't help myself." ...
 
"At this time, as an American, I feel like the angriest pacifist in the world, and I don't think I'm alone in that," says Stipe.

But who would have expected that they were so angry that they'd recruit the drummer from Ministry?

Anticipated tracks for the new album include:
"Final Straw," "I'm Gonna DJ," "On the Fly," "The Outsiders," "Leaving New York," "Wanderlust," "Electron Blue," "Aftermath," and "Magnetic North."

And of course, if anyone comes across MP3s before the album's release, I would be most greatful if you'd share.

* In case you were wondering, October's most anticipated event is my brother's wedding.