So I downloaded the song and right away realised this was a bit different, it was looser, with a hint of rawness, electronica, it sounded modern yet was also pure U2 - in the best sense. It has a touch of Mercy about it, and I love Edge's guitar throughout. I'll admit I don't really know much about Danger Mouses's work, but I like what he has done with this U2 song, they sound freer somehow, I was tired of over-produced songs we had been getting.
I love the lyrics, Bono is back to his best here. It is one of those U2 songs that lyrically can refer to more than one thing. Bono has said it refers to when he was first in London in the late 70's and he felt invisible amongst all the crowds and cool punks. It could equally refer to anyone disadvantaged and ignored in our society or far away in Africa, anyone from a broken relationship, anyone who feels isolated. The words feel both personal and universal, each listener will find their own meaning.
By time the song finished I had a daft grin on my face, always a sign I love a song! I had that wonderful buzz again and that felt good. I could visualise singing along to the chorus at a gig (whenever that might be but that's another subject!) Is it a great, classic song? Probably not, but I love it and it is a move in the right direction, a move away from the U2 norm of recent years. I hope it this is a sign of things to come for the new album.
And, just to finish, so far the song has raised over $3 million for (RED) The Global to Fight Against AIDS, TB and Malaria. No matter what you think of the song, that's pretty remarkable in itself.
Below is a promo video for the song, a full video is coming soon and I will upload that when it is available.
