Boy, October, War

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July 21st 2008. That is the date when u2's first three albums will be re-release in remastered form. "Boy" was released in 1980, October in 1981, followed a year later by the angry and often political "War". The early days of guitars with 'sweet' reverbs and lots of furious drumming. Testament to a simpler life back then. Things were not as complicated as today. Music reflecting the social condition of its time, perhaps? Even then, the eighties was certainly a materialistic age. Although they were not considered masterpieces on their own, the music in these albums are highly entertaining and very addictive on the first listen. Not their most literate but certainly not lacking in passion. My favourite of the three would be their debut, "Boy". The opener "I Will Follow" is the most memorable, with its driving guitar riff and that "ting ting" sound. "Twilight", "Out Of Control", "Another Time, Another Place" and "The Electric Co" are all urgent, highly rhythmic and very interesting songs. "October" is considered by many as a weak follow-up, but i think it has its merit. Again, a fine opener in "Gloria"-great melody with very engaging guitar works. The let-down was the some of the songs really grates-"Fire" and "Tomorrow" in particular, not because they were weak songs but more of the recording mix itself. Some parts in both songs has a piercing high frequency sound (the guitar riff) that really hurts the ear when listen to at even moderate volume. Notable tracks are "I Threw A Brick Through A Window" (interesting drum patterns that richochet and pans left and right, in the intro), "With A Shout" (a song they will never song they will never play again), and "Is That All?" (builds up and then ends abruptly). Moving on to "War". The most aggresive of the three in terms of its sound, with many saying it was their finest of the three, although i still prefer their debut. Enough has already been said of "Sunday Bloody Sunday", but this album has a very, very good song in "New Year's Day". Never heard of a rock song which integrates piano into a rock structure so perfectly. In fact, it's the piano which drive this song, not the guitar. Other groups have done it after that, perhaps. Keane? "Two Hearts Beat As One" has an instant hook, a lovely pop song. "Drowning Man" is an intriguing, atmospheric piece but not one of their best. "40", as always is still beautiful as the album closer. "The Unforgettable Fire" remastered next? Can't wait.