In 1987, an album came out that would change the way I looked at music. Up to that point, my exposure to U2 was somewhat limited, although I had heard and loved both the War album, as well as Unforgettable Fire. With the release of 1987's The Joshua Tree, however, what I looked for in an album, and what impact I found an album could have on me was realized.This DVD documentary is a must have for any U2 fan. While some of the information may be common knowledge for the most hardcore of fans, much of what I found I loved about this retrospective was in my appreciation as a musician. Daniel Lanois, Flood, as well as Bono, Larry, Edge, and Adam, contribute their thoughts to the processes that went into writing and recording such a pivotal album in rock history. One of the most interesting aspects was watching the guys at the soundboard, not only dissecting the songs, but splitting tracks up, showing parts that didn't make the cut, as well as pulling out parts to many of the songs that one might not otherwise notice if listening to the finished product.
The guys also dive into how songs were written, what they did coming into a certain recording session with any given song, and show the struggles that sometimes come with the territory of trying to put out the best material possible. Something that also comes out in the dvd is the fact that one of the band's most loved songs almost didn't make the cut. But you'll have to watch the dvd to find out which one.
All in all, while this is a short glimpse into U2's past, it is an interesting one. To see and hear the band's thoughts about an album that has been a fan favorite every since it's release is a rare thing, and should be enjoyed by anyone who calls themselves a fan of U2.
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