Former R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe performed a pair of new songs during a short opening set for Patti Smith at New York City’s Webster Hall on Thursday, performing the electronics-backed “Your Capricious Soul” and “Drive to the Ocean” with Andy LeMaster of Now It’s Overhead.
Stipe apparently debuted the two songs at a benefit concert in New York last month, according to setlist.fm. These new compositions follow a song called “Future, If Future” that Stipe shared on Instagram last year.
It’s not yet known if Stipe is working on his first post-R.E.M. solo project.
Watch the full performances of the two new songs below.
UPDATE: There was a third new song performed on Thursday night, though its title is not known.
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Boy, I wish the other 3 guys were there with him. All a bit shite without them.
I miss that band so much.
After seeing him sing at the Bowie tribute concert, I thought “Man, I really need a Michael Stipe solo album.” After seeing this, I’m like “Nah, I’m good.”
I can’t say I like his solo stuff much, to be honest, actually I don’t like it at all but God, I miss him and REM so much!
Looking good without the beard, at least.
Sadly he and Peter Buck have been adamant about no reunion ever (Mike Mills a tad less so only saying “never say never” before adding that it won’t happen) but damn, do I miss them. College in the 80’s would not have been the same without Michael, Mike, Peter, and Bill.
I agree. Everyone who has decided to grow a beard or some other disgusting facial hair needs to shave it off. Horrible.