by Brett Thim

Having seen U2 in concert before I knew there was going to be no disappointment. However, I was worried that the Tempe show was too early in the tour for the band to have it all together and perhaps they wouldn't be at their best. This was not the case. The band was phenomenal. Thankfully U2 was on musically, which made the show truly awesome. I've never heard a better live sound for a concert, it was crystal clear.

Although the crowd didn't seem to be into the "POP" songs, I was well pleased with the live renditions, which I must confess suprised me. I thought they would have problems making those types of songs work in concert, but U2 pulled it off. One of the best moments in the concert was the song "Please." I like the album version, but it took on a life of it's own live. U2 played this so passionate and, as with many songs, changed it slightly for a more full effect. The Edge's guitar sound was fantastic, it made this song and "Miami" better than on the album.

The band kept with virtually the same set list as the previous shows except for the "Stand By Me" cover, which was a pleasant surprise. Of course, "Sunday Bloody Sunday" in the middle of "Please" was only the familiar drum opening, at which the crowd went crazy. "With or Without You" brought back memories of concerts past when Bono sang a few verses of Joy Division's "Love Will Tear Us Apart." Bono also told the band at the end of the song -- "You can quit playing now", which I think amused them.

"Bullet the Blue Sky" was altered yet again, but I enjoyed the changes, it seemed like a "POP" version (if that makes any sense). The lighting on this song had made some Las Vegas citizens feel UFO's were in town. "Pride" was the best I've ever heard it, and "I Still Haven't Found.." was one of the highs of the concert for me. Also, Bono described "Staring at the Sun" as the "sunshine song."

The stage was huge, as everybody knows, but the main focus is the screen. Unlike the Zoo tour, where there was a myriad of stage props to distract you, this stage keeps your eyes in one place most of the time. I think it was great, if you can't see the band you can definately see them up close and personal on the screen.

The show was incredible but what impresses me the most is, despite the new image and the stage setup and the hype, U2 still give aperformance with the same passion that they were known for in the 80's. And musically, probably better.

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