Watch My Facebook Acoustic Concert FREE

A common response when you get an invitation is, “I’m sorry, I just can’t make it.” In a perfect world, I’d make it, but man, this is a fallen world. It’s not possible. I just can’t do it.

Whenever I say “I can’t make it” what I really mean is “Technically, if I overextended myself, neglected responsibilities and relationships, I could make it. But I don’t really want to” – or “I just don’t want to go.” Maybe that’s what you mean, too. Whatever you mean, maybe you said “I can’t make it” when I invited you to my Facebook concert recently.

It’s ok, I understand. We all get busy. But worry not – you can view the whole thing for free:

You’ll have to disregard the offers for free stuff, because that ship has sailed! Stay tuned for the next concert, though. I’ll probably do another one before I die.

In the Earbuds – “Songs of Experience” by U2

This collection of new songs from the nearly 40 year old band is such a breath of fresh air. By the way, is there any other band that has stayed active with their original lineup for this long? I don’t think so.

I haven’t been really taken with much of their material in the past 15 years, but this album is rejuvenating. It reminds me of 2000’s “All That You Can’t Leave Behind.” Great hooks, a sort of raw, understated production, the Edge’s trademark delay guitar leads, and some classic Bono poetry:

“Dinosaur wonders why it still walks the earth; meteor promises it’s not gonna hurt”
“Blessed are the liars, for the truth can be awkward.”
“I have everything but I feel like nothing at all; there’s no risky thing for a man who’s determined to fall”
“Love is bigger than anything in its way”
“There’s a level of shallow that you just can’t fake”

Born out of political upheaval in the West and Bono’s own personal crisis, the songs are woven together by the ideal of Love – as much of U2’s music is. Although, this love is experienced in the real, broken world:

“You’re the best thing about me;
lovely things are easy to destroy
If you’re the best thing about me
Why am I walking away?”

Bono’s commentary on the songs is a bonus in the lyrics booklet; an eloquent elaboration on the meaning behind the songs. It should save you a Google with the terms “lyrics meaning.”

An outstanding comeback from the pop / rock titans.

I Cover a U2 Song

Speaking of U2, check out this acoustic slide version of their new song, Lights of Home:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’m no Robert Johnson, but hey, who is? Besides Robert Johnson?