Sloan bassist Chris Murphy is preparing to cross the Atlantic for a high-stakes series of concerts in the United Kingdom and Ireland, performing note-for-note basslines in an R.E.M. tribute project fronted by actor Michael Shannon. According to interviews given by Murphy, the opportunity to finally visit Ireland—combined with his own familial heritage—made the unique musical detour an easy decision despite the tight rehearsal schedule.
The Lineup and Logistics Behind the R.E.M. Tribute Tour
The upcoming international dates are billed under the banner of Michael Shannon & Jason Narducy And Friends. Because the ensemble’s regular bassist, John Stirratt, is currently touring with Wilco, Murphy received the invitation to step in. Murphy told interviewers that he connected with the project through existing friendships with bandmates Jason Narducy and drummer Jon Wurster. Murphy described Narducy and Wurster as indie rock stalwarts and kindred spirits.
Unlike his usual role playing drums in the touring group Trans-Canada Highwaymen—where he noted he can easily fake the parts—Murphy faces a strict learning curve. According to Murphy, the upcoming shows require mastering roughly two hours of precise music from an American rock institution with only a single rehearsal before hitting the stage.
Recreating Lifes Rich Pageant Abroad
The setlist for the upcoming overseas dates centers heavily on R.E.M.’s 1986 landmark album, Lifes Rich Pageant, alongside other classic cuts from the band’s catalog. Michael Shannon, who has earned two Academy Award nominations for his supporting work in Revolutionary Road and Nocturnal Animals, has collaborated musically with Narducy for over a decade. The duo has previously tackled full-album tributes to artists like Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and The Smiths.
Momentum for the current tour builds on a July 2023 performance at Chicago’s Metro celebrating the 40th anniversary of R.E.M.’s debut album, Murmur. That concert featured a surprise guest appearance from R.E.M. bassist Mike Mills. According to a press release issued for the tour, what started as a one-off performance quickly evolved into a full-fledged touring act. Last year, all four original members of R.E.M.—who rarely reunite on stage—joined Shannon and Narducy during a live appearance. Murphy views this rare interaction as a definitive stamp of approval from the original artists, calling the enterprise a sanctioned act.
Sloan’s Connection to R.E.M. Business Ethics
Beyond the music, Murphy holds a deep respect for how R.E.M. managed its career. According to Murphy, the band’s historic decision to split all income equally among its four members served as a vital signpost for Sloan on how to handle business partnerships.
The irony of landing the gig is not lost on Murphy’s bandmates. Sloan bandmate Jay Ferguson is a devoted fan of R.E.M., and Murphy admitted feeling sheepish about sharing the news. With Ferguson scheduled to be in London during the tour, Murphy joked that his bandmate might start a U2 cover band traveling to Athens, Georgia, just to counter the R.E.M. tribute heading to Dublin.
Did you know? R.E.M. members Mike Mills, Michael Stipe, Bill Berry, and Peter Buck made a rare joint public appearance at the Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala in New York City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is performing in the R.E.M. tribute tour?
The tour features actor Michael Shannon and musician Jason Narducy, alongside guest musicians including Sloan bassist Chris Murphy and drummer Jon Wurster.
Why isn’t John Stirratt playing bass on this tour?
John Stirratt is unavailable for the upcoming dates because he is touring with his primary band, Wilco.
What album is the band primarily playing?
The ensemble is focusing heavily on R.E.M.’s 1986 release, Lifes Rich Pageant, alongside other selections from the band’s extensive catalog.
How many rehearsals does Chris Murphy have before the tour?
Murphy stated that the group will hold just one rehearsal before launching the U.K. and Ireland tour dates.
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