Crucial Track for November 5, 2025

"Near Wild Heaven" by R.E.M.

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What song makes you feel understood when no one else does?

It would probably be something from Out of Time by R.E.M. It's one of the first records I bought for myself. My family had recently moved to a different area, triggering three school changes in as many years. That was hard going for a shy, introverted child. It's a strange record because it incorporates musical styles and arrangements that often sound exuberant and uplifting, but beneath the surface, the lyrics explore darker themes I identified with at that time. Over the years, it's remained a record I turn to for comfort.