U2: The Best of 1980-1990

Well, it’s “sod off we’re never going to be like we used to so buy the greatest hits album and get over it” time for U2. And a finer collection of alternative ’80s rock you’ll have trouble finding. Despite efforts to disown their ’80s material, U2’s ’90s work has been fragmented and resembles passing trends. This collection, ending with their Rattle and Hum album, shows a band with a unique sound and an honesty that bores a hole straight to your heart. Because of their diversion from their peers, only “Sunday Bloody Sunday,” “New Year’s Day” and “I Will Follow” show signs of dating. Their work from The Unforgettable Fire, The Joshua Tree and Rattle and Hum remains crisp, earnest and unforgettable. With the inclusion of 1991’s Achtung Baby, this compilation would, in my mind, not require another volume. Those wanting the extra CD of B-sides should be wary — of fan value only.

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