Songs of Innocence
Artist: U2
Many have criticized U2 for dumping unwanted music into their iTunes, as if they were some kind of musical terrorists of some sort. In the meantime, the rest of us actually listened to the album and discovered the most reflective, personal songs of 2014. Liking ‘Songs of Innocence’ seems almost to be a rebellious move; join me in jumping off the bandwagon.
“Every Breaking Wind” is a sweeping new classic, jammed to the brim with everything you love about U2. ‘Innocence’ is not about doing things the same old way, though. You can tell by the album’s title that the mood is retrospective, but any artist knows that pulling off retrospect is not easy. “Iris (Hold Me Close)” and “Cedarwood Road,” two of many standout tracks, chronicle a series of memories from Bono’s past. The former is about his mother’s passing while the latter pulls its namesake from his childhood address. “The Miracle (Of Joey Ramone)” and “This is Where You Can Reach Me Now” both look back in different ways, saluting the bands pivotal influences.
This is perfection gone completely misunderstood by a failed distribution campaign. I have seen lists be discredited for including this album on their “Best of” lists. I have it as #1 for no other reason than simply loving the music. You can hate on it if you want. You’re missing out.