Album Review: Achtung Baby Deluxe Edition

 Album Review: Achtung Baby Deluxe Edition by U2

It's hard to believe that U2 has been around that long. If I had to pick the breakout album for the band, it would certainly be Achtung Baby. The varied songs and sounds from this album alone provides you with enough satisfaction to truly rank this as one of their best.

Originally released in the early 1990s, the deluxe edition collects the various singles, b-sides and remixes of the classic album. Nevertheless, Achtung Baby stands the test of time because of the amazing guitar work and melodies of the songs. While the band always had success with the strength of their singles, it's not hard to see why songs like "Mysterious Ways" and "Even Better Than The Real Thing" with their catchy hooks hit the top of the pop charts as well. These will be karaoke favorites again!
Contrast that to the ethereal sounds of "Love is Blindness" and you understand the broad range of the band and the album. It's also powerful ballads like "One" with it's captivating lyrics that draw you in as well. Although, the soulful Mary J. Blige collaboration of "One" is not on this particular release. Then you have your hard charging tracks like "The Fly" and "Until The End of the World" that remind again, that U2 is still a rock band.

The B-sides are also stand on their own. The groovy "Blow Your House Down" is a far cry from "Satellite of Love", with it's own unique sound. Take note of the remixes for "The Fly" with their own unique styles, especially for the "Lounge Fly Mix". Of course, you have understand the emerging techno music of the 90s to appreciate the remixes too, such as "Mysterious Ways (Perfecto Mix)".

 

Super Deluxe Edition

Overall, new listeners will get to enjoy a truly great rock album that stands the test time. The wide range and unique sounds of Achtung Baby still sound fresh today as it did, twenty years ago. You can order the digital version on iTunes above or separately as a two disc set. Disc one contains the remastered album and disc 2 contains the remixes and b-sides. Additionally, there is a Super Deluxe Edition as pictured above.

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