We had done our best to successfully navigate from home to the train station to the hotel and, finally, the venue where we had been requested to arrive 90 minutes before showtime in order to secure our phones and other electronics. Something which was just not happening. Miraculously, we managed to get The Beacon Theater on Wednesday night an hour in advance of curtain, which was an accomplishment as far as I was concerned.
Resisting my urge to search for reviews or write ups about the show before attending, was also a feat, though a lesser one. Often, before a concert, I google previous shows to check out the setlist to prepare myself. In this situation, I had no idea what I was about to see. I had zero preconceived ideas of what to expect.
What I did have, though, was excitement.
What I experienced, from the moment Bono appeared on stage, was absolutely incredible. He is the definition of a rock star.
I will not divulge specific details, but I’m happy to tell you what I saw…
An opera
A religious revival
A literary happening
A poetry reading
A rock show
A confession
A modern dance
An event which I won’t soon forget.
I don’t care if you think that Bono is overrated or annoying or an asshole. It doesn’t affect how I feel about him or U2. Even with the tickets coming in at a price beyond what I’ve ever paid for a U2 concert, I believe the expense was justified. Honestly, I would happily pay even more to see it again.
For me, the appeal of U2 comes from the lyrics and guitar. They both just grab me. For the first time, my favorite aspect of the show was Bono’s voice. It sounded magnificent, rich and powerful. Often, he toyed with the microphone, moving it closer or more distant as he played with the sound. It was almost like his voice and the microphone melded into a new instrument.
It was masterful without being showy. Something some might say was new territory for Bono.
I’ve enjoyed Bono’s singing before, but I’ve never been as impressed with the quality of his voice as I was on Wednesday. He sounded better than I’ve ever heard him sound.
It was an unforgettable evening…if you can score a ticket, don’t hesitate. Bono in the 2600 seat Beacon Theater is an event you should definitely Surrender to.
Also – The Beacon is a gem of a venue. Have you been there?
Best place for after show drinks? The Dublin House, for sure. You?
DelSo 
Great blog. Saw U2 play Dublin in 1986 when I was a nipper!