Powerful Debut by "Biggest Band in the World"

Boy (1980)\nU2\nRating: 9\nIsland Records\nThroughout the '80s, U2 established themselves by making some of the most complete and catchy albums of the decade. Boy, although one of the strongest rock debuts of the decade, is often overlooked. Since they've recently reclaimed their status as one of the world's biggest bands, it's important to look at how they kicked it off. Their sound is eerily developed for how green they were when they released it. Clearly they were aware of the imagery and tone they wanted to convey. \nIf you are familiar with any of their early through mid-'80s work, then Boy will immediately sound familiar. The Edge's sound echoes throughout as Bono cries out with just as much passion or more than he would ever muster thereafter (War might be the exception). Although not a concept album, the themes in Boy center around the struggles of adolescence and finding one's place in the world and incorporates some very subtle Irish folk influences. It's raw, intense and somehow sounds more mature than much of their later experimental albums.\nAs usual, two members are more present on the album. This time they happen to be Bono and The Edge. The album points to the greatness that would come to fruition on Joshua Tree, Unforgettable Fire and my personal favorite War. In my opinion, it ranks at No. 3 just behind Joshua Tree. It's less experimental than its successor October and not nearly as slick as War, but sonically very similar to both. If you grew up in a town that had good radio stations you might be lucky to recognize one or two of the standouts such as "I Will Follow" or "Twilight." \nIf you're a big fan of their more introspective stuff then here's where it all began. You can feel the adrenaline here just like on War and best of all, they sounded like no one I've ever heard at this point (I don't care what Public Image Ltd. fans say!). Although they are one of the few bands that can still write good, bright and happy songs and almost always developed their sound tastefully, their musical journey through the influence of American music and culture and success itself has taken them to a far different place today. It just happens that the place they were at in 1980 was far better. Until you have this one, you're not a real U2 fan!\n

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