U2 - No Line on the Horizon
CD Review 
Hiruma Cyrus
When a veteran band remains at the pinnacle of success selling out stadiums across the planet, it is certain that the launch of a new CD arouses great expectation. In the case of U2, the greatest attention is because the musicians are keen to focus on creativity to meet a basic principle: never stop in time.
Moreover, it is a rarity in the music scene, the band maintains the same training from the first album: Bono (vocals), The Edge (guitar), Adam Clayton (bass) and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums).
No Line on the Horizon is an interesting title for the new band's work. There are no boundaries that limit the horizon, the group's musical vision. Experiment with new sounds and trends is a necessity, even if the result is not always desired.
U2 has a curious proposal: investing in innovation but seek influence in their own past. It is a process of reinvention and revitalization. The title track is an example: it has elements reminiscent of techno pop album (1997), but without losing sight of the basic rock. Bono's vocals expressed urgency and tension followed closely by the aggressive drumming.
"Magnificent" is a journey in time machine, takes the listener back to the War album (1983). The instrumental is up to date, but the same force and momentum are present. It is certainly a highlight.
On the CD The Joshua Tree (1987) and the previously unreleased documentary Rattle and Hum (1988), the band began a survey of American rhythms that gave birth to rock. At the time, the musicians were recording songs in the Sun Records studio in Memphis, where Elvis Presley recorded his first singles. "Moment of Surrender" recreates this moment. The gospel-inspired body prepares the atmosphere for a quick makeup that travels between the country and rhythm 'n' blues.
The same idea is present in "the Snow White", who is keen to show their country roots 'n' western, the fusion of American folk music and the typical western themes. It's a song that takes the sensitivity and reveal their beauty, especially the interpretation of Bono.
"Unknown Caller" sound takes influences from the Middle East that appeared on Achtung Baby (1991). The chorus is the strength and the music gets to a climate epic, orchestral. Bono uses falsetto without obtaining significant results. Despite all the production is not relevant in a music album.
Rather, "I'll Go Crazy" is what is expected of U2, might well be the harvest of The Joshua Tree. The singer tries again vary the vocal style without achieving his purpose. However, the other musicians are able to rescue the band in top form. The performance of the Edge and their riffs, which are a trademark, have absolute highlight.
"Get on Your Boots" places past and present side by side. Cutting edge electronic effects are associated with a melody typical of the British '60s pop. Any reference to the Beatles' Rubber Soul is not a coincidence.
When it comes to swing, "Stand Up Comedy" is the exact point where a combination of rhythmic Clayton and Mullen works perfectly. The guitar adds a lot of weight and the result is a pleasing composition, but without becoming special.
"FEZ - Being Born" is pure atmosphere of the soundtrack begins with a few scattered voices in the background and the progress is serene, tranquil, increasing gradually gaining momentum. The Edge uses delicate textures on his guitar, while Clayton is responsible for the heavier line. Great time.
The attack of nimble drumsticks Mullen and The Edge's guitar riffs are the basis of "Breath," which resembles "Pride (In the Name of Love)." The chemistry between the musicians work well, but not enough to make memorable music.
Likewise, drums and guitar drive the action in "Cedars of Lebanon", which is extra attractive verses recited by Bono. Could be more interesting, after all is the closing track.
No Line on the Horizon is far from a classic band. However, shows that U2 would prefer risking bold and novel ideas instead of parking in the glories of the past decades. Not always the formula works, but still the balance is more than positive.
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