This is Not a Show: R.E.M. at NWFF This Weekend

A couple years ago, way back in 2007, R.E.M.–the seminal Athens, Georgia-based band that’s as old as I am–was working on their upcoming album.  A key part of their process this time around was five nights of trial-by-fire live performances of the new material (“working rehearsals”) in front of sold-out audiences of fans, friends, and family members.  Way to use the method, guys, even if it was an “experiment in terror.”

The result was their acclaimed 2008 return-to-form release Accelerate, as well as the double album R.E.M.: Live at the Olympia, and now the documentary This is Not a Show. The film features concert and backstage footage from noted live music director Vincent Moon.  If you know his work with La Blogotheque, you know that he captures great, spontaneous performances from unknown indie bands and living legends alike.  Check the trailer above for just a taste.

• This is Not a Show plays at the Northwest Film Forum October 23-25, daily at 8pm. Tickets are $6 NWFF members, $9 non-members.