Can't Get There From Here
R.E.M. · Eponymous
Bad to swallow you whole.
Kick the clay that holds the teeth in
Throw your trolls out the door
If you're needing inspiration
Philomath is where I go by dawn
Lawyer Jeff he knows the lowdown
He's mighty bad to visit home
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way
When your hands are feeling empty
Stick head jumpin' off the ground, 'round
Tris is sure to shirr the deers out
Brother Ray can sing my song
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Hands down, Calechee bound
Landlocked kiss the ground
Dirt of seven continents going round and round
Go on ahead Mr. Citywide hypnotized, suit and tied
Gentlemen, testify
If your world is a monster
Bad to swallow you whole
Philomath they know the lowdown
Throw your trolls out the door
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way Can't get there from here
I've been there I know the way. Thank you, Ray.
Can't Get There From Here
Can't Get There From Here stands as a defining track from R.E.M.'s 1988 self-titled album, marking a pivotal shift in the band's sonic identity. Moving away from the dense, jangly textures of their earlier work, the recording embraces a darker, more atmospheric production style that would come to characterize their mid-career output. The song reflects the group's evolving songwriting maturity, blending Michael Stipe's enigmatic vocal delivery with Peter Buck's intricate guitar work and the tight rhythmic foundation of Mike Mills and Bill Berry. As part of a critically acclaimed era that solidified their status as alternative rock pioneers, the track captures the band's ability to balance introspection with accessible melody. It remains a significant song in their extensive discography, illustrating the artistic growth that preceded their subsequent commercial dominance.