I'd been wanting to see the band play for several years, and I didn't get to see them on the Elevation tour or prior, so this was my first U2 show. I flew home from Nashville early in order to drive down to Portland and see my favorite Irish lads rock the roof off of the Rose Garden. Although the venue acoustics could have been better and at times the sound was lacking, ultimately the power of the band and the energy in the room made for a special night. It was not only as good as I had hoped for but exceeded my expectations, with The Edge, Bono, Adam, and Larry playing off of each other and the crowd like only they can do...every bit as much of a community experience as a Bruce Springsteen show, if not more so.

Particularly moving was Miss Sarijevo. The transition from Pride into Where the Streets Have No Name was flawless and one more example of their greatness...as much as it is pleasing musically, U2 is really about a sound that goes beyond the usual descriptions and musical analysis/criticism. So I won't attempt to explain it in vain; if you are a fan you probably understand what I'm talking about.

I have to disagree with some of the reviews about the Lennon tributes. They covered Lennon like only U2 could, and I have to believe it would've brought a smile to John's face.

I won't go on and on, but it was certainly one of the greatest concert experiences of 2005 and I'll have to do whatever necessary in order to see my favorite lads from Dublin next time around!

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