Seems R.E.M have decided to call it a day with a bit of dignity.
"We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished," the statement continued. "To anyone who ever felt touched by our music, our deepest thanks for listening."
They've intermittently produced some classic albums of the 31 years of their existence.
I'd highly recommend "I Feel Fine - the best of the IRS years" which is a very good compilation of their work from 1980 to 1987.
Most are aware of the Warner Brothers output from 88 onwards.
http://http://remhq.com/news_story.php?id=1446