FX's The Bear is already known for several things – the writing, the acting, the realistic but beautiful cinematography and, of course, the food – but one of the show's secret weapons is its needle drops.

Featured prominently in season two, which started streaming on Hulu on June 22, is classic alt-rock band R.E.M. To honor that partnership, the show and the band released a full-length music video of a remix of Strange Currencies.

The song also was included as part of the official season two trailer, which was released on May 15:

Three versions of the song are used in season two: the 1994 original release, a 2019 remix and a never-before-heard demo of the song, which is exclusive to the show. Additionally, a “Strange Currencies” digital single that combines four versions of the song -- a live versioncaptured in 1995 and performed in 1996's Road Movie, the remastered album version, and the 2019 remix -- debuted on digital platforms on Friday, June 23.

Another classic R.E.M. tune made an appearance in season one when “Oh My Heart” (off 2011's Collapse Into Now”) closed out episode three. And “Half a World Away” (off of 1991's “Out of Time”) will be a part of the season-two finale.

Both the show's creator Christopher Storer and executive producer Josh Senior are longtime fans of the band, who, in turn, are fans of the show:

“The Bear is hands down my favorite show of last year – I cannot wait to dive into episodes for season two. Having incorporated R.E.M. songs into their universe makes it even sweeter,” said R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe in a statement. “The best people at any party are always in the kitchen!”

The Bear follows young but already celebrated chef Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) after he returns to Chicago to run his recently deceased brother's somewhat greasy sandwich shop. Carmy has found a business and creative partner in Sydney Adamu (Ayo Edebiri) and he deals – pretty patiently – with his intense cousin Richie Jerimovich (Ebon Moss-Bacharach). In season two, the team is working against the clock to turn the grimy sandwich joint (two words: mold problems) into a Michelin-starred restaurant.

FX's The Bear was created by Christopher Storer (Ramy, Eighth Grade), who acts as executive producer alongside Joanna Calo(BoJack Horseman, Undone), Hiro Murai (Atlanta, Station Eleven) of Super Frog, Josh Senior and Matty Matheson, with Tyson Bidner (Ramy) serving as producer. The series is produced by FX Productions.