OK, normally, I labor over these postings. Not today. Time is of the essence and Carmen and I are really stoked for U2's show at Madison Square Garden tonight and I need to share some thoughts. Hearing they break out a few old time faves such as the one below:
Gloria - Chicago 2015
Ahhh, to be in lock step with your favorite and most beloved artist. Given that somewhat tired hypothetical of which living public figure would you like to hang out for a night with, one Paul Hewson, aka Bono, always jumps to the top of my list. Man, I am really looking forward to hanging with Bono, The Edge, Larry and Adam tonight in NYC.
U2 and NYC are special. They work well apart but together they are simply symphonic. Unfortunately, I don't have a historical NY concert to call on but I have a bit of a sea story. Thinking back to 1984 and to my freshman (aka plebe) year at Kings Point and the amazing and unusual opportunity to leave campus (aka prison) and head into NYC to see U2 at the Garden. For the life of me, I can't remember why I didn't go, maybe I was on restriction but I am now officially sad I don't have that memory to call back on. My buddies all went and as I recall, Jay was so inebriated that he slept through the entire show. I'm going to have to ask for details from the crew when we get together in East Hampton for our annual triathlon and boys' weekend pilgrimage.
Innocence to Experience (#U2ietour) is not a bad place to reflect on my voyage and after an incredibly wonderful year, looking forward toward the undiscovered with my love is especially appealing. Carmen and I have shared loads of musical memories together and can claim catching the joys at Austin City Limits Festival with Beck, Pearl Jam, The Replacements, St Vincent, Jenny Lewis, Phantogram, Trombone Shorty, Churches, Eminem along with another handful of shows including The Pixies, Sleigh Bells, The Black Keys and Beck. Life, is indeed, good.
After having very little love for their most recent offering on the first few listens, I'm now officially onboard. Not quite four stars but definitely three point five and I am hearing that their live performances of their new stuff is quite stirring. Maybe it's the mood that I've created today but I am very much looking forward to The Miracle of Joey Ramone, Cedarwood Road, Iris, among others.
In parting, I strongly recommend the piece on Observer.com on U2 and where they and others might consider them on their musical and artistic continuum:
U2's place on the rock continuum
