U2 - Achtung Baby (Universal)

It's hard to believe 20 years had passed since "Achtung Baby." But as fresh as these songs still sound, time does not stand still. "Achtung Baby" was a huge album, and it re-defined U2 for the 90s. Many of the songs here were huge hits, and the band still plays them to this day.

This reissue offers the original album completely re-mastered and refreshed. There is a bonus disc of B-sides, and rarities. In other words, just about everything U2 recorded in that time frame is here. The set is accompanied by a very impressive booklet with all song lyrics, and some great photos. One in particular grabs your attention. It's Larry standing next to East Germany's Trabant, and Bono on the opposite side standing next to West Germany's Mercedes. What a time defining moment. The album, of course was done in Berlin (and Dublin), when big changes were sweeping Germany and the rest of Europe. The music and the graphic design certainly reflect that spirit, as does the title.

It was a very different album from other U2 productions, but of course the band didn't stop here. They continued to progress and explore with different levels of success, only to find themselves going back to basics by the end of the decade. "Achtung Baby" was a memorable record, ideal for the times in which it was released, and these songs still fare well 20 years down the line.

Mark Kadzielawa