R.E.M.’s sophomore album, Reckoning, is about to get a sonic upgrade.
The 1984 American rock classic is set to be released on 180-gram vinyl, with audio sourced from the album’s original master tapes, on 18th September. The reissue comes as the latest addition to Intercope-Capitol Records Definitive Sound Series.
The original co-producers of the album, Mitch Easter and Don Dixon, were personally involved with the release, which was mastered by Grammy-award winning engineer, Chris Bellman.
According to a post shared by R.E.M on Instagram, the involvement of the original engineers “helped ensure that every decision remained faithful to the warmth, dynamics, balance and distinctive character of the original 1984 recording.”
Upon hearing the upgraded masters, Dixon commented that he was “hearing details within the recording that had escaped him on previous vinyl editions”.
When it was released in April, 1984, Reckoning found widespread critical acclaim. One of the album’s songs, So. Central Rain (I’m Sorry), secured R.E.M. their first ever spot in the Billboard Hot 100.
As part of Interscope-Capitol Records’ Definitive Sound Series, the band’s debut EP, Chronic Town, and debut album, Murmur, have also been reissued as limited editions. Both releases have since sold out.
The Definitive Sound Series edition of Reckoning is available to pre-order now and will be limited to 5000 numbered copies – so move fast if you want to hear So. Central Rain like never before.
MORE
The ultimate music tracks to test your hi-fi system
Rewind to the 1970s with this Pink Floyd, The Dark Side of the Moon, cassette player boxset
Technics paints it black with The Rolling Stones themed wireless earbuds
