We're going to do this two bands at a time, pitting those with similar career lengths and starting points against each other.

R.E.M. I suppose. Stipe is less of a sanctimonious asshole than Bono, and there are at least a few REM songs l like so that'd have to be it. But I sure wouldn't be happy.

i would say rem too, since nearly every album they released in the 80s was a classic.

U2.

For starters, I can put on *any* one of their records, except maybe the new one, and find something worth listening to. REM, however, just up and died several records ago, with a few gems here and there, although none on the past 2, that much is evident.

KPH

also, if this thread doesn't end up sucking, great idea FT.

KPH

it'd be tough to give up all U2, but r.e.m. was throwing fastballs well into the 90s, with fewer exceptions than U2.

REM put out 4 or 5 good to great albums in their prime. U2 have always been one of the worst bands to gain widespread popularity. I choose REM.

80s REM is good, but 90s REM aint so great.I dont like any U2 albums, so REM win by default.

The thought is horrendous. But I choose R.E.M.

As a child of the 80's in every way imaginable I'll always have a soft spot for REM. Growing up in small town Georgia and hearing them from time to time through my friend's older siblings, you couldn't help but love em.

There was always this intangible "thing" about those 80's albums that I can't put my finger on. There's this youthful optimism in there, there's mystery, southern gothic in some, and it was always very collegiate. But the hooks are all over the place.

What can I say.........they were one of my posters on my wall in high school. Green Tour poster.

yeah, but i never agree with you. big wow.

KPH

I agree with Stu. Either would be a nightmare. But I'd go REM.

Well, at least you've got your health.

don't be so sure.

KPH

Ahhh!!! I can't vote. I think U2 had higher heights, but REM has more great albums. But what KPH says is true, REM has put out more crappy ones too. Eep.

i'm really not a fan of either band but i'd have to go with U2 since i actually own one of their albums.

What are my choices again? Can I choose option "C"?

But seriously, there's no way I'd listen to just one artist for the rest of my life, that's a recipe for madness...

Holy cock, I'd kill myself if I had to listen to either of these bands for the rest of my life. I SHOW NO LOVE FOR THE REM.

Man, I used to love U2 and now I find myself debating if I'd rather listen to them or REM. I never thought I'd see the day... I ultimately went with U2 but they're quickly wearing out their welcome with me.

you will wear your dockers and you will like it

I gotta show love for REM. They were the first band I ever really liked of my own accord. REM is the sound of my adolescence; U2 is just a pretty decent rock band.

My pals and I used to sit in the Waffle House and debate those nonsense lyrics for hours.

'another Greenville...'

U2

I didn't vote and thought I'd throw my two cents in.

U2 4eva!