Everything about this show was off-kilter.
The band, in addition to being swallowed by the screen, seemed unengaged and rushed
The heavy political messages were never paired with the much-needed “transcendence” that epitomizes U2.
The non-JT setlist was baffling and, even worse, featured not a single song from the past 15 years. I love the setlist's songs on their own, but would never order them this way (other than the JT).
The volume was too high and literally hurt.
The aforementioned screen distracted more than enhanced the show. The videos were bizarre.
U2 need to find their spark again and quickly. It’s sad to see them (sloppily) lean on work 30 years old.
I doubt the U2 of Joshua Tree 1987 would ever desire the Joshua Tree 2017.
The band still sounds professional and still has those moments of brilliance, but U2 doesn’t really work as just an average “passable” act. Their brand is as much about the story and feeling as it is about the music, after all.
I still enjoyed it, though, just not as much as on the past three tours. High standards usually make disappointment easy. Likely would make a fun concert film despite the flaws!