A Sampling of One of the Finest Artists of Our Generation

What else can really be said about such an amazing band? No matter what you think of U2 or its seemingly pretentious singer, there's no denying the masterful knack the band has to touch the soul. And has been for over two decades now. For all we know, Bono isn't acting pretentious enough. Think about it...he has a power most government officials wish they had. Like the power to speak to the youth, and actually be heard. That is something U2 has done that was by choice, and should be commended for all the good done as a result.
U2 is a band with a social conscience, which is not exactly a bad thing. Some think it's uncool. Some think U2 is "old" and have lost "the edge". Lest we forget the guitarist is known as The Edge?! U2 is cool because they don't want to be cool. Never did. They just do what they feel is right, speak up for those who need a voice, and heal those who suffer. If your ear is suffering from overexposure to corporate sludge, give U2 a listen. Past or present, you really can't go wrong. If you're not very familiar with the band, this album is a good start.
Here I've broken down the songs and put down my thoughts about each:

1. Pride (In The Name Of Love) 3:48 - One of those quintessestial U2 songs. It has an amazing musical vibe to it accompanied by insightful lyrics. The verses allude to Martin Luther King Jr. and his struggles for equality and his everlasting pride.

2. New Year's Day 4:17 - Great groove on this song; the drum beat is straight-ahead and as fierce as Bono's words. "I'll be with you again," Bono sings on this war-time ballad.

3. With Or Without You 4:55 - Eerily beautiful piece of music. It was a Number One single and for good reason. The words can speak on many levels, whether spiritually, romantically, or whatever interpretation the listener has. Remarkable song.

4. I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For 4:38 - Another gem from the highly acclaimed Joshua Tree album. The lyrics seem to embody the search every person experiences in various facets of life. On Rattle and Hum there is a phenomenal gospel version of this song. Check that out as well.

5. Sunday Bloody Sunday 4:40 - As soon as the steady drum beat comes in, a ringing arpeggio chimes in on guitar. Then, Bono hums a few bars before bursting in. "How long, how long must we sing this song? How long? How long? 'cuz tonight we can be as one." Much like New Year's Day, Sunday Bloody Sunday has a classic struggle of war and love.

6. Bad 5:50 - Another amazing U2 song from the early 80's catalog.

7. Where The Streets Have No Name 4:35 - Perhaps the greatest song to kick off an album. The swelling keyboard sounds introduce the song, which is the opener on the Joshua Tree. Amazing lyrics, The Edge is incomparable, beautifully performed. One of the signature songs of U2.

8. I Will Follow 3:36 - An early hit for the young upstarts. It has a very distinct 80's sound. It's simple but effective. About as close as U2 ever sounded to punk. Perhaps because of the sense of urgency on the track.

9. The Unforgettable Fire 4:53 - Continuing the journey through 80's U2. Another great track from U2's humble beginnings.

10. Sweetest Thing - (The Single Mix) 3:00 - A song Bono wrote for the love of his life. It's got a pop song confectionary quality to it, but at the same time remains effective in its message. "Ain't love the sweetest thing?" Bono sings.

11. Desire 2:59 - Excellent guitar riff, very rocking song. Sounds almost countrified, and a little bluesy. Bono dons the cowboy hat and whips out the harp on this one. Very cool track.

12. When Love Comes To Town 4:17 - Continuing the American feel, U2 recruits blues legend B.B. King to play his signature sounding licks and to sing along with Bono. King's warm notes accent this track as the legend shares the mic with the boys from Dublin.

13. Angel Of Harlem 3:49 - The Edge strums the opening chords and the full band kicks in on this number. It's a feel-good, uplifting type of song. Bono's vocals are very heartfelt.

14. All I Want Is You 6:31 - From the slowly trudging opening chords to the breakdown following the songs crescendo, this song is pure excellence. It is reminiscent of an Elvis Presley ballad with just as much beauty. The Edge adds a reverberating guitar sound to accent. One of U2's finest ballads. Very beautiful song, and an excellent way to end the collection.