R.E.M.

An album that really really grows on you. On first hearing it sounded pleasant but somewhat bland, lacking the bite that REM can often have. But on subsequent listenings (and yes, I am a huge fan) the songs worm their way into your brain and stay there. Meditations on love, loss and the war in Iraq. It is up there with their best. Standout tracks - Leaving New York (what with 'Leaving was never my proud'?), Final Straw, I Wanted To be Wrong and Elecron Blue.  ajaychow