Bill Berry, former drummer and co-founder of R.E.M., turns 52 today. We wanted to take a loving look back at the band when he filled the drum chair. There are LOT of fans who really miss Berry and the energy and percussive creativity he brought to this band. There’s no denying things have been strikingly different since his retirement from their ranks and music in general in 1997.

Damn, the man really can hit the skins!

Often this band is at their best when they swim methodically through thick atmosphere.

Hey, check out these young men at a tiny lil’ club in North Carolina!

Next, the lovely, measured MTV Unplugged version of a standout off Murmur.

A song about throw-up at least according to Stipe. Warning: Sound very low but worth it for the cheeky interview segment and one of their best b-sides live.

One of the only times Berry has performed with his former bandmates since his departure was at their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2007. It’s scary-funny how much of a difference his presence makes and how much this feels like such a band. Never underestimate the power of a great drummer.

Since we’re snagging tracks from back in the day, here’s a nifty live version of a great Fables track that really highlights what Berry brought to the band’s sound.

We conclude with a sweet ass triple-play that begins with their snotty tear through Aerosmith’s “Toys In The Attic.” We miss you, Bill. Really. A lot.

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