In an age of artificially manufactured teen idols with a shelf life of fifteen minutes, it's great to see one of the best all time music groups (and one of my all time favourites) on the scene again.
'All That You Can't Leave Behind' by U2
Irish rock band U2 is out with their latest album, 'All That You Can't Leave Behind'. As usual, it's an eminently listenable set of songs that resonate with lead singer Bono's passionate vocals. Now well into their second decade in the pop-rock firmament, the band continues to experiment with musical styles. If there's one thing U2 cannot be accused of, it's being stuck in a musical rut. From the classic rock to pop to world music to techno, it's been a long, restless journey. There is no common musical theme or signature style informing the songs on 'All That You Can't Leave Behind'. The only common thread running through the album are the faintly melancholic lyrics.
The quartet- Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry McMullen- are back in top form with this album. The lyrics are outstanding (U2 is one of those unusual bands that makes their music first and then searches for the words to complement them). There is the usual mix of introspection and espousal of socio-political causes that the band members hold dear. Polemics, luckily, are offset by fabulous guitar riffs, Bono's soaring voice and the sheer edgy beauty of the melody. 'Peace on Earth', 'Walk On' and 'Beautiful Day' are particularly good and were made to order for one of U2's pulsating live performances. Also check out the contemplative 'Grace'. Lead singer Bono whose long marriage ended this year, lends a wistful sadness to the songs with his rendition of both the words and the melody.
Hats off again to long time producers Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno who have once again shown what musician-producer collaboration is all about.
Rating: Well, every time a U2 album comes out, I immediately go and buy it. I have never regretted my choice so far. Nor do I think I will regret snapping up this one. Simply- excellent.
'All that you can't leave Behind' by U2. Universal. Available on cassettes and CD.
>
- A song of self-celebration >>
- The Renaissance Man >>
- One >>
- Returning to Pop Roots >>
- This musical legend still rocks >>
- Borrowed Words, Original Voices >>
- Trance Tsunami >>
- Soundtrack symphony >>
- Loaded with Latino Pizzaz >>
- Aaj Ke Sitare
- Bollywood Baatein
- Book Reviews
- Books
- Celeb Soup
- Chalo Cinema
- Geet Gaane
- Hollywood Hungama
- Mithya
- Moulin Rouge
- Movies
- New Releases
- Passages
- Quiz
- Short story Contest
- Sound of Music
- Star Ghar
- Communities
- Counsellors
- Youth Counsellors
- BPO Agony Aunt
- Contests
- Quizzes
- BPO Zone
 Post Comment |
|