U2 – No Line On The Horizon

A new week begins and we can start by getting the new U2 record – “No Line On The Horizon” on Tuesday. Right away, it feels more vital and risky than the last two records, but nothing seems to have been compromised. All the elements of what they do well (and have done well for the past three decades) is present, but the sounds draw from all of their career, including Pop and Achtung Baby.

Somehow they push themselves to do something that is not easy, but they just don’t look like they’re trying that hard. John Pareles of the New York Times offered the nice observation that they strive for

an intimacy that strives to encompass the universe.

Standout songs are ‘Magnificint’, ‘Unknown Caller’, ‘Stand-up Comedy’ and ‘Breathe’.