A moment of silence please. R.E.M. calls it quits.

Ahh, R.E.M., how I loved thee. You were a part of my tortured youth. The band I could put on and feel at once rebellious, hip, tortured, dark, and cool. Thanks for the ride.

“To our Fans and Friends: As R.E.M., and as lifelong friends and co-conspirators, we have decided to call it a day as a band. We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished. To anyone who ever felt touched by our music, our deepest thanks for listening.” R.E.M.