Kohoutek

It would be tempting to dismiss this song as late-in-the-album filler, something thrown together quickly in the studio. After all, it does sound like the three guys in the band are jamming somewhat without direction, and Michael is mumbling through a Steno-pad worth of obtuse lyrics.

It is a tad indulgent - he even tosses his own name in there a few times for good measure. But it's not a total loss. For instance, which "Kohoutek" is this about? The comet, the astronomer, or the composer (yes, I used Wiki...)? Second, gotta give it up for the sweet falsetto. And last, and my only gripe is it is buried until the very end, the organ sounds are real nice.

Green Grow the Rushes

Apparently, this is a political song (and if so, it's one the REM's first), but one would hardly be worked up into a frenzy and storm the Capitol after listening to it. Lyrically, the tune is a mild statement about the plight of Mexican immigrants:
The compass points the worker's home
Pay for your freedom, find another gate

But the real gem inside this song is the melodic trail, led mostly by Pete's guitar work, that tumbles evenly down from a high point to ground level between the verses. The otherwise standard jangly arpeggios are served by the connective tissue of those interludes. Stipe's vocals are earnest without being urgent, but breezy without being poppy. All together, a simple tune with grace.