Review of REM: Parallel

Introduction

This is one of three REM discs currently available in region 2. A compilation of music videos from the albums "Automatic For the People" and "Monster", it`s almost like a mini-greatest hits compilation.

The videos themselves (from various directors including Spike Jonze) are interspersed with a series of short films which fit in very well with the disc itself. Interesting that this DVD gets a 15 rating, as there is full frontal nudity in the film preceding "Nightswimming" and the video iteslf.

Video

The disc is presented in standard full-frame 4:3, as you would expect from music videos made a few years ago. There are a few other aspect ratios used in some of the film clips, but they all remain as 4:3.

The video quality is very good, even though this is just a collection of music videos. Film DVD producers take note!

Audio

PCM stereo is on offer here, and the quality is perfect. All the songs sound excellent. Play loud.

Features

No real extras here. Subtitles are available (during the videos and the linking clips) so you can finally decipher the lyrics for "The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite" amongst others.

There is another track available that`s not mentioned on the box. During the closing credits, rehearsal footage of "Star me Kitten" plays (you`ll soon find out the real title of the song).

Conclusion

This really is an excellent disc, and a must for REM fans. A very good collection of videos (REM have tended to excel with their music videos), and an interesting selection of linking pieces adds to that.

Some shining examples of the music video format are here, and also some of REM`s best musical work in my opinion. A top disc.