The Vinyl Brew: U2 - Achtung Baby

Now, by no means was this U2’s first foray into reinventing themselves but we like to focus on one album at a time here, so today let’s stick to Achtung Baby. Released in 1991 and coming off the back of ‘Rattle and Hum’ which had found a mixed critical reception, it was U2’s seventh studio album. Produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno it was the bands attempt to incorporate alt rock, electronic and industrial music into their sound. After some criticism of the bands last album in which people felt they were trying to place themselves in the ranks of blues legends, the guys with Achtung Baby tried to portray a less serious, more self-deprecating image.

To say Achtung Baby had a rocky start is an understatement! The band headed to Germany to record with half the band thinking that they should stick with the sound they had worked so hard on and the other half thinking it was time for a change. In-fighting was prevalent and with the band almost breaking up because of the conflict, it was the coming together of the track “One” that would put the group back on track. Heading back to Dublin to finish the recording, the cohesiveness that made the band work so well was re-established. 

It is obvious from listening that U2 were trying to experiment with new sounds, with a more defined electronic dance sound influence clearly running through most tracks. Although it is always nice to see bands grow and try to re-invent themselves, it is hard to not instantly recognize the songs as U2 tracks. With one of the most iconic voices in music there is just something about every U2 album that screams U2.

There is a journey that Achtung Baby brings you on from start to finish. Every track is meant for the album and as a whole they come together to make an album that runs beautifully from track to track. There is something comforting in the knowledge that as much as they may try to change their sound and direction, U2 are still that band that everyone has listened to and although they may not admit it, probably have a favourite song of.

 The album would do all the things you’d expect, with number ones all over the world and a Grammy Award but it also produced songs that will never go out of style. Tracks, that whether you heard them in 1991, or are to listening today or listening to in 50 years will still be relevant and sound modern. It’s the bands magic power; they move with the time or maybe time moves with them.

So, who should be adding Achtung Baby to their collection? If you like guitar driven, well-crafted songs with a backline to rival any ever formed and a front man, whether you love or loathe him, who knows how to Wow, then this is for you! As we pick our outro today it’s a tough one but I’m going to go with “Mysterious Ways”. Remember head over to our Twitter @vinyl8records and let us know what you think.

“To touch is to heal, to hurt is to steal

If you want to kiss the sky, better learn how to kneel

On your knees, boy”

Till next time,
T

Next Sunday's brew is Pixies' Best of Pixies: Wave of Mutilation. Why not add this gem to your collection so we can listen together next week!