I listened to the single, to the pre-release hype, to my longing for the REM of old and bought this CD. Capital M mistake. I respect the professional, talented abilities of the band, but I'm sorry, this CD just doesn't do it for me. With the exception of the radio single, I found the CD as a whole meandering, bloated, and self-absorbed. Michael Stipe's dissociative lyrics become tiresome track after track especially when they're backed up by one-size-fits all strings, uninspiring guitars, and flat tempos. Like I said, I respect their talents, but the CD is an example of the occassional disconnect between critical acclaim and good pop music. This band has lost its edge, and this CD shows it.