October is almost over so this one's overdue.
With U2 in town (probably more accurately described as "in region") on Tue (10/6) night and a couple of tickets in hand, 220 miles between Columbia and Atlanta seemed a small price to pay for the band that has painted the musical backdrop to my adolescent and adult life. There were a few hurdles to overcome, maybe a potential story or two as a result and a good time most likely lay ahead for me and my buddy Jim in ATL. I hadn't seen Bono and the boys play since the stupendous Elevation Tour 6 years ago. Although some negatives were lining up on the debit side of the ledger, the credits seemed to be accruing nicely.
I don't pay much attention to the whims of the American consumer but the lack of sales for Horizon really did reflect poorly on a bunch of disappointing singles. Get on Your Boots, Magnificent, Breath were weak and unfortunately, they set the tone for the concert. I was, however, looking forward to Unknown Caller with its singalong hook and killer lyrics and I thought No Line on the Horizon would turn out to be a good or great live song, maybe like Elevation turned out live. Well, no Unknown Caller and a underwhelming No Line on the Horizon. Overall, the venue, the sound, the playlist and ultimately the challenging drive home all made for a disappointing night. Let's just say that I survived.
Quick list of disappointments:
1. They did not play Pride (In the Name of Love) in MLK's home town. WTF?
2. I Will Follow, Gloria, Bad, and Two Hearts among others were avoided
3. Weak versions of Where the Streets Have No Name, I Still Haven't Found and Elevation.
4. I hate stadium shows, no matter how big the video screens, the space staion and speakers. I guess I knew that's where the show was being played but it still was disappointing.
5. Too much time with pictures of Aung San Suu Kyi and her plight with the Burmese government. I guess I'm a bit too shallow...
Here's to hoping the next time is a bit more intimate (like Philips Arena (?!), instead of a freaking dome) with a stronger playlist.
Despite the letdown, I really love these guys and hoping this isn't the beginning of the end for my favorite band. I really am looking forward to bringing my three little guys for a once in a lifetime experience and hoping that the show wows them like many have in the past for me.
U2 at the Rose Bowl
