REELING IN THE YEARS
A U2 miscellany from the pages of Hot Press 1978-85.
?? ??, 25 Mar 1978

Newly-formed Dublin New Wave band U-2 scored a blow for rock 'n' roll when they won the top prize of £500 in a group contest co-sponsored by the Evening Press and Harp Lager held recently during the Civic Week in Limerick. That's what you call getting the breaks ...
U-2's first over mention In Hot Press, Vol 1 No. 21, March 30th 1978
U-2 mayn't be out of school yet but they're certainly showing the suss in managing their affairs which many older bands haven't yet learned ...
Vol 1 No. 22 April 13th 1978
They were fun to dance to, but the School Kids have more than a few wrinkles to iron out before they'll leave a lasting impression.
On the other hand, U-2 have only one big problem, conquering the 'fast-is-good' fallacy that plagues them now. Already possessed of a fine rhythm section, a tangible identity, and a promising vocalist U-2 managed to negate the impact of their originals simply by playing too fast. What could well have been very clever songs sounded unintelligible and indistinguishable.
A glimmer of U-2's direction may be gleaned from the inclusion of Wire's 'Mannequin' in their set, and if U-2 can slow down long enough to be heard, they could step to the fore of the Dublin music scene.
Karl Tsigdinos
Vol 2 No 1. June 8th 1978
It's as well Revolver have finally found themselves with competition like U-2 on the up and up. With a passionate lead singer who's not one to ape other's microphone poses and a guitarist who supplies a mild metal additive, U-2 are impressive contenders with the appetite and talent to improve beyond their already creditable status.
Standing apart from this year's new bands in their suss and willingness to learn that will soon end any technical faults, U-2 profit from the fact that they've an identity that needs little alteration. Revolver recovered in time but they had better not stand still. U-2 are ready to pass everyone out.
Oh and both bands slew fast week's British import, Advertising. Guaranteed Irish, guaranteed quality.
Bill Graham
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