My relationship with U2’s music can be summed up in one word: indifference.

When I first heard “Pride (In The Name Of Love)” blasting out of someone’s boom box in the mid-’80s, I was intrigued at the rawness and grit. Music was a little harder to consume in those days, and I wasn’t able to find a U2 cassette until The Joshua Tree came out. By then, my musical tastes were leaning toward heavier sounds, and U2 didn’t hold my 12-year-old interest.

Now, I recognize the band are tremendous musicians who are respected by many of my favorite artists. Hell, I was just reading the Johnny Marr autobiography, and he gushes about them. On this quick listen, Bono turns in live versions of classic U2 tunes, which are taken from his one-man stage show that’s inspired by his bestselling memoir—Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story.

“Desire” starts the three tracks. Bono’s voice sure is aging well, and is complemented by Jacknife Lee’s flowing drums, light cello from Kate Ellis and upbeat strings thanks to David Rossi. The end of the song is a departure from the original, with a noisy, hazy exit.

The middle track, “The Showman,” is a more recent tune. It’s a softer moment, where Bono hits some high notes and Gemma Doherty contributes lovely backing vocals. The last 30 seconds get a bit more forceful vocally, but it’s largely an intimate offering.

“Sunday Blood Sunday” occupies Side B. We all know the tune, but here it’s much more calm, as Doherty's pretty harp and a chilling ambience welcomes spoken parts and soulful, passionate singing.

For fans of U2, this is a must for the very different takes on songs you already adore. The limited edition appeal of the 7” will get the record collectors frothing at the mouth, too.

Rating: B+

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