Larry: How to Dismantle a Drum Kit*

By Roland Schulte
2004.10

The hardest working, coolest playing man in show business celebrates a birthday today, October 31, so it’s time to review some of his highlights. And thanks to his Dick Clark-like ripening, we’ll be able to do this for many years to come.

So here they are, in ascending order, the top-five pounding, bopping, thud-whacking, driving, thundering, stomping beats from Larry…Mullen…Jr…..

5. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” – Larry has “kept U2 in their first job”
largely because of the success of this song. Simple and straightforward, the early drum work on this one can be mimicked by any Larry wannabe at the local music store. The drum manufacturers really owe Larry for this one.

4. “Please” – All U2 concert-goers know that the B-stage is usually occupied by Bono and The Edge. This song, however, could probably survive without them. With “Please”, Larry and Adam perforate a plea all their own.

3. “Trip Through Your Wires” – Also know as “Whipped by Larry’s Ire.” If you still have it cranked up after “In God’s Country,” your ears are going to hurt when Larry goes at it. Hard work going on behind the drum kit here.

2. “Bullet the Blue Sky” – One of Larry’s, and U2’s, most recognizable songs, all thanks to a pounding intro. The Edge has a jagged platform from which to pounce as this song kicks off. Again, watch the volume level after “With or Without You.”

1. “Miami” – Listening to this one, you picture Larry rolling down the streets of Miami on a beloved Harley, wearing Ray Bans, and probably smoking a cigarette. We don’t really know if Larry smokes, but he does on this song. Larry’s work paints the picture of Miami, right or wrong, good or bad.

All photos c/o U2.com.