Release: March 3, 2009
As this is my first CD to review, U2’s new release couldn’t have been a better one. Why? Well, I am a fan, so odds are that I would like this one. I have to say, U2 fans will not be disappointed, but after all this time, this band is still appealing to the casual fan. The haunting vocals, the unorthodox guitar rhythms/leads, and the tight rhythm section are all here.
When people think of U2, they think of Bono. As the front-man, he is the focal point of the band. Here is the thing that stood out for me when listening to this album - It isn’t mixed with Bono as the focal point. As a vocalist I think he is great, and most engineers tend to cater to the “strengths” of the band. However, this CD is mixed like a rock band! The bass and drums are high in the mix with the guitar and the vocals. Adam’s bass is even distorted on “Magnificent” and “Get On Your Boots”! This back-to-basics is what gives it the feel and energy.
No Line On The Horizon was released on Tuesday (Mar 3) and after a few listens, 7 out of 11 tracks stood out for me. That’s right – 7! How many bands can you say that about right now? Not many. The days of buying an entire CD are quickly becoming extinct. However, the mastering of the album seems a little quirky in that it starts off with upbeat material and eventually leads to the slower tunes. I am not a big fan of the slower songs, and tend to lose interest quickly, but the guitar work and vocals in “Breathe” were very soothing and made this track stand out.
All in all, I recommend this CD to everyone. It's what people have grown to expect from U2 and yet still feels fresh and welcoming. While it might not be Joshua Tree or Achtung Baby, it definitely has its place in everyone’s U2 Collection.
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