Carnival of Sorts (Box Cars)

An early reviewer called Chronic Town "unforced and cunning", which certainly is true of "Carnival". It is at the same time a product of it's day - sprightly early 80s New Wave - and a glimpse into what REM would become - singular and individual. From the calliope opener, to the crisp percussion, the jangly guitar, and the distinct Stipe sound, all the hallmarks are there. Is it a favorite? Not really, but I'd be willing to bet had there been a little promotional and distribution muscle at IRS at the time, it could have done well as a single.

By the way, is anybody else irked that CT is slapped onto the end of Dead Letter Office these days, and doesn't get its own packaging? Bring back the gargoyle sticking out his tongue!