A U2 Spring

Larry Lootsteen April 16, 2013

So here we are again. Spring is springing in the Northern hemisphere. Buds budding, flowers flowering. And a U2 album ready to break. As rumblings of listening sessions in camp filter out, I am left wondering when they will let us in the sound...

Well, this is my first vid, hope you like it. It's in my opinion, the best u2song yet! This song is actually about gambling! and that's not so hard to imagine when you look at the lyrics...

As perturbed as I've been over the possibility of a 'dance' album, I'm starting to come around about it. I'm at that point where that fear is turning to intrigue. This is U2 after all. And they may change things up but that won't change who they are.

As U2 heads into Season 5, album-wise, a fresh start and a new twist are required. I still wonder what that may sound like. But as spring breaks with a new season of possibilities, I am hopeful that they will bring it and bring it hard.

The gears of the machine that is U2 is slowly starting to grind. The build is done and now comes the execution of the plan. The work on the song order, the first single, plans for a video starting to come. The staging and the logistics of tour 2014 coming into focus. And the anticipation on our end is starting to froth.

This U2 spring is going to give way to the fire of summer and the explosion of fall colours of a glorious new album. Godspeed boys. We await, breath bated, as always.

U2 Pairs

Larry Lootsteen March 28, 2013

Larry Lootsteen - Conestogo, Ontario, Canada

I often try and bring songs together that work. So if I have a playlist I'm prepping I try and make sure those songs work together. That doesn't mean every song played beside every other song always works but the overall sound has a relationship of sorts.

Thinking about that reminded me of all the times I tried to pair up songs. U2 songs for me are something that can really grab you in teams. High-energy, low energy, meaningful, fun. It is always great to find two songs that can be played back to back and really work.

I almost always play these two back-to-back:

Red Hill Mining Town:

One Tree Hill:

Song by U2 from the album The Joshua Tree

So what do you think? Does that work for you? What U2 pairs do you have that you love! Let's build a list and share some awesomeness!!

What Does The End Look Like To You?

Larry Lootsteen March 18, 2013

As I've gotten older I noticed something. The band has also gotten older! Wow, right? Who knew? I am nothing if not observant!!

I realize this is one of those topics that many U2 fans want to avoid like the plague. Can't think about our boys not putting out releases and touring. But I think it is worth exploring and really thinking the 'how' U2 should walk into that gentle night.

Direçao: Barry Devlin Album: The Unforgettable Fire 1984 - Paris, Brüssel, Rotterdam, London, Glasgow Official Video Wide Awake in America Universal Music Group

I am one of those who wishes The Rolling Stones had retired 20 years ago. I hate these 'money' tours which are part 'feed the fans' but mostly 'line the pockets' for the band. What about U2? Do they tour beyond their prime to make money? Does potential philanthropy warrant staying too long?

Or does going out on top matter to you? It sure does for me. I want them to put out either a massive single or a massive album, tour the crap out of it and just walk away to never return. Does that horrify you? A world without a U2 tour? No years of speculation on 'when' a new album might drop? No 'care that Adam was spotted in St. Tropez or Bono and Edge attending a gala?

For me, leaving on top and never coming back is the ultimate prize for the best band in the world. It shows class and recognition of time. It's a reality far too few embrace but one I'm hoping U2 will follow.

What about you? What does the end look like to you?