What more can be said about U2 as a live entity? Well, maybe look at it from a personal perspective - in this case, U2’s performances’ impact on the life & times of Paul Smernicki, music manager (Hyyts, Swim School, Magnum House) and long-time label executive. And at one fleeting moment, a potential addition to U2’s management team. 

Starting with Zoo Station from Achtung Baby, the opening trio of Paul’s very own U2 Fantasy Setlist is full of bangers including the monster songs ‘Streets’ and “Beautiful Day’, but listen on. From an exquisite live recording of A Sort Of Homecoming (from the Unforgettable Fire), Paul’s choices take us somewhat deeper into the U2 cannon - lots of early tracks, just a couple of fabulous B-sides and one or two unusual moments including The Edge’s track Heroine (sung by Sinead O’Connor on the record, but by The Cocteau Twins’ Liz Fraser in Paul’s ‘fantasy’) and U2’s mostly forgotten Christmas song. 

The subjects we talked about include tips on how to play Wire on guitar (hint: don’t bother trying) and how going to gigs from bands you love will always be worth more than sofas. In Paul’s view, U2’s Boy album is one of the greatest debuts of all time, which is something you might dispute, but only after spending some time listening to the album! 

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