Sound from the Emerald Isle

The Unforgettable Fire by U2

They formed in Dublin in 1976 as a result of the rock dreams of then 14 year old drummer Larry Mullen Jr., and a notice he posted on a school bulletin board asking for musicians. U2’s music was a consequential and unforgettable part of the 80s, and, reinvented, just as consequential in the 90s.

Their unique sound was driven by the charismatic vocals of Bono and the brilliantly minimalist guitar style of the Edge. That sound was magnified by their many socio-political stances that shined brilliantly through the lyrics and emotionality of their ensemble. With 15 studio albums, nearly two dozen grammy awards, a sea of chart toppers, they are pretty close to a pop phenomenon and they used that success to push for social change toward global peace, human rights and the eradication of poverty.

This album, The Unforgettable Fire, is from 1984 and the fifth in the band’s discography. It includes the song, Pride (In the Name of Love).

My copy is an original promo never intended to be in the hands of a collector like me. On the top of the cover in glossy gold lettering that reflects brightly the light overhead, commands officially, “Lent for promotional use only. Any sales or unauthorized transfer is prohibited and void. Subject to return upon demand by the owner. Acceptance of this record constitutes agreement to the above.”

On the back of the cover is the name Patrick Pearson in black ink. Next to his name, Patrick added the date, 8-26-88. I have several albums from the 70s and 80s with someone’s name written on them. I collect used, original release albums not just for the record, I also collect the history of the artifact. Not just the music, these possessions are often so coveted and personal to the owner, they etch their own self into the experience. So, Mr. Pearson, however you got a hold of a promo copy 4 years after the release, I thank you for taking care of it and then sending it on out to be enjoyed by another.