80

I haven't written in a LONG while, not sure why. Lots has happened in my life, just not sure where the time has went. It's mid-summer 2011 and my last trip took me to Pittsburgh, PA and Cleveland, OH. Why? Well, U2 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, of course. Why else do I travel? Yes, soccer at times but U2 have been a major contributor to my adventures.

Well, this last adventure took me to my 80th U2 show since June 1983. Yes, I'm old. So, the numbers-7 US states, 3 foreign countries and countless hours of driving and air travel not to mention hours in lines for the last three tours waiting to get in the best possible position of the General Admission set-up that has defined these last three tours (Elevation, Vertigo and 360). I'm often asked what was my favorite show or tour or song. Difficult to pinpoint but of all the tours since 1983, Zoo TV still stands out as a major break through in concerts. Anyone who has been to any show of any artist since will have felt the effects of Zoo TV without possibly knowing. I cannot go to any show and not see how Zoo TV is not in there somewhere.

        (Bono and Edge/Pittsburgh 2011)

Saying that, however, I also know that there was a show in San Jose, CA (April 20, 2001-Elevation Tour) that stands alone at the top of performances by U2. The band were beyond description and when my closest friend and I walked out we were speechless. U2 were beyond flawless that night, beyond what bands are supposed to be able to reproduce live, but they did. Emotion aside, if you could find a recording of the show, which I have of course, Bono's own words tell that it was their best.

This last show in Pittsburgh was amazing. The band was loose and having fun, they played a tremendously well received setlist and I was swept away all over again in the emotion of it all. I do not have a favorite U2 song, that is recorded but live-Where the Streets Have No Name is unmatched. It is not just the best live U2 song, it's the best live song ever played and if they are truly on (rarity if they are not) it becomes more than euphoria that I feel at it's playing. I was recently asked by someone very close to me why I go to all these shows. Streets is the reason why I go. The song itself has been used by the band as an opening, closing, in the middle of sets and opening/closing of encores-never as a final song is the only place it has not been used. It always works. Always.

So, another tour is over and the wait begins again for the next album and the rush of adrenaline when it's announced. The buying and first playing of the album, the tour announcement and then the plans to travel begin are all in the distance now. I'll wait patiently. I'll listen to recordings of shows seen, just to reminisce and forget for a while to listen to U2. Listen to other bands I'm fond of and go to other shows. But, when time comes and the echoes of Where the Streets of No Name are heard, I will go. Peace.