In the chorus of R.E.M.’s “These Days,” is Michael Stipe singing “Oh, it’s sunny out” or “All of sudden”? I don’t know. After a thousand listens, I hear it both ways. When I sang it with the Maxell 90 on Friday, April 21 at the Visulite Theatre, I sang it both ways, in my mind at least. The song goes by so fast and with such a blistering intensity that it’s hard to care in the moment if the lyric is right.

This third iteration of the Maxell 90 R.E.M. tribute wasn’t supposed to work. A NC Triangle scene isn’t supposed to draw well in Charlotte. Two of the marquee singers had to cancel at the last minute. Only half of the singers actually got a chance to check their songs before the show. But this show defied every omen and was, quite arguably, the best one yet.

I sat back stage for most of the night but snuck out a handful of times to see a few of the performances. Most of the time, we all just sat around and told stories. I got to answer a few questions about the Satellites video. I also had a chance to ask other performers about their artistry, which, in room like that one, is easily a masterclass in the performing arts.

Until next time . . .