In contrast to the directness of {^Green} and {^Document}, this may seem like a return to the abstractness of the early years, but that isn't the case. {^Out of Time} is among {$R.E.M}.'s best work -- a mature, balanced, graceful collection of pop songs quite different from {^Murmur} and {^Reckoning}. {$Buck}, {$Berry}, and {$Mills} switch instruments frequently, keeping the music fresh and exciting. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide