Setting Fire to the Great Unknown

The first thought that came to mind when I heard this CD was the description, "U2 revved up with a turbo engine." And upon further listening to the tracks on Setting Fire to the Great Unknown, it became more and more apt.

Songs like "Revenge" and "Learning to Remain" are almost a little too derivative and lack the spark of creativity, while "Goodbye Sweet Youth, Goodbye" becomes overly melodramatic.

But happily, not all songs sound like Bono carbon copies ? there are a few standout highlights on the second half of the CD that are very original. "An Echo in the Dark" was one of my favorites, with a start/stop melodic pattern that was interesting to listen to. And "Monarch Wings" is moody and romantic with a smooth flow.

"Make Me Like the Moon" is a radio-ready single with a beat that propels it forward and outstanding, broodingly intense lyrics. And "Not Afraid" was a great Morrissey-esque ballad with lovely harmonies that floats off into the atmosphere and leaves us wanting more in its wake. The same can be said of the rest of this CD - it's a beauty.