Monday, March 2, 2009

Brit Music Scene

Brit Music Scene

U2 Play Surprise Rooftop Gig In London | Not Exactly The Beatles Are They…

Posted: 01 Mar 2009 01:38 PM PST

In the 18 months or so that I’ve been writing Brit Music Scene, I’ve done nothing but support British bands, with the possible exception of Boyzone and the Spice Girls for obvious reasons. But I cannot bring myself to back U2 in their current state.

I’ve already reviewed their new album, No Line On The Horizon, and it’s safe to say I’m not a fan of it, giving it just three out of 10. And now I’m about to call them out for being publicity-seeking copycats. U2 fans may want to look away now.

U2 staged a surprise gig on the roof of BBC Broadcasting House in London on Friday night. 5,000 fans turned up to watch them perform a medley of tunes after news of the gig was leaked (intentionally) to various message boards on the Web.

U2 performed a 20-minute set, which included new single Get On Your Boots, as well as covers of She Loves You by The Beatles and Substitute by The Who. The gig was aired live on Chris Evans’ Radio 2 show.

This was clearly a publicity stunt in order to sell more copies of their terrible new album, and the timing is blatant, with the album out in the UK on Monday. It was also a clear attempt to mimic The Beatles rooftop gig from 1969.

U2 aren’t The Beatles, and never will be. While I would have loved to have been present when the Beatles played on the roof of the old Apple building 40 years ago, I’m really glad I missed out this time.

There are some reasons to be hopeful though. The Beatles split up soon after that famous gig, so let’s hope lightning strikes twice. U2 are over-the-hill and not a patch on what they used to be. I think retirement is well overdue.

[Photo Source: From Newscom with permission]

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