by JT

First off let me begin by saying as always, U2 put on a great show. Unspectacular, but great show.

As someone who has seen U2 several dozen times since the mid-80's, last night's show seemed to me to be more of a "Greatest Hits" show than anything else. Sure, they played 7 songs from the new album but c'mon, how many times are we going to hear "Pride?" No doubt, a great song, but I'm sure there's something else from the catalog they could play - "Unforgettable Fire" perhaps? Other rarities like "The Ocean" that really only die-hard fans would know? Maybe it's just me, but this coupled with the fact that they've dusted off "40" as a closer says to me they're dropping some kind of hint. Not that they'll stop making records, but that their touring days may be numbered.

When the show started, it was obvious Bono's voice wasn't as strong as in the past; admittedly, he referred to being sick at the beginning of "Miracle Drug." HOWEVER, he did as best as he could with what he had and still projected and fought thru it. One of the best front men in music.

Boston has always been a favorite city of the bands' and I think it shows when they play here. The crowd is different, and the band elevates themselves to a new level. HOWEVER, one thing that has plagued U2 since the ZooTV tour is predictability, and that's one thing I think die-hard fans have had to endure. Due to being such a massive production (ie, lighting, video), the band can't really mix it up from night-to-night. Sure, they can pluck out and insert 3-4 different songs, but the majority of the show is exactly the same.

Overall, for your run-of-the-mill U2 fan, last night's show was utterly fantastic. For the die-hards, again, it seemed more like a greatest hits show than anything else, but still to be enjoyed. Anytime you see the best band in the world, you know know you're in for a treat.

Highlights include, "Running to Stand Still," "Electric Co.," another re-worked version of "The Fly," the acoutic "Yahweh." I must also say that the staging and lighting are really fantastic.

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