I saw U2 on November 2nd, 2001 during their Elevation tour, and shortly after 9/11. It was an astounding performance to say the least, but enhanced even more by the recent attacks on the Trade Towers.

Ever the shining diplomats, U2 was capable of inciting patriotism and pride in our country's time of hurt and healing, but without taking sides, and ever-appearing on neutral grounds. While I would like to believe that I knew what their true beliefs and philosophies on that then current situation was, I admired them so much more for appealing to ALL their fans, and everyone for that matter, leaving no one out, and no one behind. The concert allowed the numberless thousands at that concert to grieve while at the same time lift their heads and hearts in joy at the beauty of the world that supercedes any act of barbarism, terrorism, or politicism.

Jump to Dec. 14, 2005. Vertigo in St. Louis. Elevation has been elevated so high it now has Vertigo. The heart is gone but the intimacy of the audience is not with the elipse still reaching out to the crowd on the floor, like huge arms in a bear hug. It's almost as if to say to the fans "you made us what we are, and we embrace you." In fact, I think I remember Bono did say something to that effect at the top of the show. Basically, any beliefs and philosophies presented in Elevation were lifted to new heights and given worldly views during the Vertigo concert. African debt played a prominent role in the diatribe, as well it should. We as a country hold a large key to the future of Africa, whose many complicated and complex political systems--some desirable, some not--make our domestic political agendas look like childplay.

If Bono ever retires from Rock and Roll, which I personally hope he does NOT, I feel he should be elected to some world leadership position ASAP in hopes that the world will improve even more under his kind and loving tutelage.

On a purely technical standpoint, the concert setup was very similar. The major difference was the the various sheets dropping out of the ceiling grid in Elevation were upgraded to an amazing light display that was capable of depicting images of people, planes, flags and flourish. As amazing as U2 is at music, the show wouldn't be half of what it is without the impressive talents of their trusty tech. crew.

All in all, if you have a chance to catch Vertigo, go. Do it now. Drop whatever you're doing and go. This is not a show. It is not a concert. It is an event.

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