The REM - U2 Mutual Admiration Society

From a Radio One interview with Michael Stipe and Mike Mills:

What's the motivation to keep making music?
Mike: To make a better record than U2. I couldn't be happier for those guys, or more proud of them.

From Bono's comments in USA Today (via U2.com):

After hearing the new REM album Reveal, Bono told USA Today that it is 'extraordinary'.

'I felt ill when I heard it.' he said. 'It's a very beautiful, awe inspiring record. REM is a force.'