Once you get over the shock of some of the reworkings, and the very stylised vocal performance of Bono at times (read a critique of Kurt Cobain's carefully honed 'lazy' vocal style, and Bono hits that mark perfectly, I believe), this album actually HITS!
One thing to note - what on earth is THAT backing vocal on I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For at 3:30?!?!?!?
Had it on in the car and found it quirky, but over the past two weeks while I've been locked up in my office, working alone, this album has completely blown my mind!!! It's sublime in parts - delicate, unexpected and hauntingly beautiful.
Stand out tracks for me:
Stories For Boys, Red Hill Mining Town, The Fly, Desire (there - I said it!!!), Two Hearts and "40".
Give it time, and find a quiet place to listen...