This group from Athens handedly created the sound of the eighties, with a mix of the typical rhythm of The Velvet Underground, the whining Rickenbacker guitar playing of The Byrds and their own vague charismatic vocals. Many bands followed their example. But even when the R.E.M. sound became the norm in the lucrative "alternative rock" Chants group refused to remain silent. The band continued to
… change and evolve, without ever letting go of their underground principles. The Somehow they were over time superstars, but this did not change their dedication to their music. In 1997 drummer Bill Berry left the group, but Michael Stipe, Peter Buck and Mike Mills persisted, despite his absence. In September 2011 the band was lifted ..more