by Dave G

I will not go into much song detail, as we all know (or can easily find) the songs performed, how they walk out so gracefully on "40", and obviously how great the band is.

Personally, this would be my favorite show I've been to, which started in the Popmart days. Song selection was outstanding, as we were treated with 1 or 2 songs that aren't usually nightly staples and I'm embracing a new concert fave in Miss Sarejevo. But certainly, I can't discount the fact that I was in the ellipse, center stage, and 5 feet from Bono!

With that said, the crowd still appeared to be as lively, if not more so, than the Elevation tour where many would take a seat for several songs throughout the night. I hate to say that, but it was a mellow-er tour than Vertigo 2005 (which I consider an Elevation 2001 on steroids) Sure, people may have sat down a few times, or maybe the sound was off for a few songs (which was still an improvement after such a sucky opening performance by Bu- er, Institute. But let's focus on the things that we fans check this webpage for... the interesting bits that set each night apart.

A few great moments would be a fan "taunting" Bono with a Santa hat during Elevation, and the band getting their laughs out of Bono's debate whether to put it on or not, or Bono once again bringing a child on stage. On Stuck in a Moment, Bono and Edge couldn't seem to be in sync, and Bono goofed the lyrics badly and smiled when asking to start a verse over. Or what about the girl that was quite frisky on stage, and maybe was let back down early before she embarrassed Bono? Those in the ellipse may have noticed Bono unexpectedly hack and cough as he spun around for water, only to turn to us with a big grin, and mouth out "excuse me!" Finally, the energy of Till the End of the World was great with the extended rockin' ending by the band, and Bono running laps around the ellipse while chasing Edge. These are the things you want to take note of when seeing u2 multiple times.

Finally, I would say that my general overview is overwhelmingly positive, as a great portion of the show was interlaced with spiritual, worshipful messages and ideas, and the political moments were as powerful as always. I felt that the prelude to "One" was a culmination of many of Bono's cliches and pep talks about Africa complied into this perfect speech... (which may be b/c Sen. Jesse Helms was in attendance).

Oh well, I'll try to attach a few photos as well...

Return to previous page | Post a Review of this show!