Stipe @ The Limelight Crewe, May 21st 2004				Review by June Bayley
	In the absence of daughter Sarah,who 'couldn't get there from here', I managed to drag her dad along to the Limelight, Crewe on Friday night to see Stipe,THE REM tribute band. As I had seen them twice before I knew I was in for a treat. I was not disappointed, and even my husband, not the greatest REM fan in the world, declared it a great night and was amazed at the resemblance, both in sound and presentation. There was a good turnout at the venue, for which I was pleased, as I think they deserve to be heard. Stipe played one and a half hours worth of great songs,which included the obligatory Everybody Hurts,Losing my Religion,Imitation of Life etc. The highlights for me were Animal, spot on, I Believe, Orange Crush, arguably better than the live performance by REM themselves(dare I say that?) Ignoreland, brilliant and Departure, really rockin'. Country Feedback was spinetingling,with an impressive rendition of the closing guitar solo, well done Paul! Tony provided some brilliant harmonies and looks more like Mr.Mills all the time. Rick's vocals were spot on,although if I had a criticism,he could have used a bit more volume as unfortunately I missed the between song Stipeisms. (Perhaps that was due to the ignoramuses in the crowd). If you are an REM fan and feel that going to see a tribute band would be heresy,forget it! They really show their commitment as fans themselves. Looking forward to my next 'fix' later in the year back at the Limelight, or sooner if I can manage it. Thanks for a fabulous night Stipe. June Bayley
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