First Impressions of "No Line on the Horizon" U2 Album

Here are my initial impressions of the "No Line on the Horizon" album released today by U2. Before reading the impressions, it is important to note that I typically prefer music that is mellow/dark/eerie, features impressive instrumentals (not just left to the background), and has vocals that are not "over the top."

Examples of my favorite U2 songs from past albums are: New Year's Day, One, With or Without You, and Kite. I should also note that it typically takes me four or five listens to a new U2 album before my opinions are finalized and my favorite songs are clear to me.

1. No Line on the Horizon (7 out of 10) - Has a great backbeat and has the potential to be an addictive listen.
2. Magnificent (8 out of 10) - A darker tune. Enjoyed the soft to loud build-up. Could develop into long-term favorite.
3. Moment of Surrender (9 out of 10) - A dark and mellow song with intriguing vocals. Great harmony in the chorus. Impressive guitar-play late in the song. An early favorite off of the album.
4. Unknown Caller (6 out of 10) - Irritating vocals. Difficult to pinpoint exact source of dislike.
5. I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight (6 out of 10) - Vocals unappealing. Guitar-play strong, but overshadowed by vocals.
6. Get On Your Boots (6 out of 10) - Did not care for this song the first few times I heard it. Still feel that way. Fast and upbeat tune with a different sound and feel that I do not identify with U2.
7. Stand Up Comedy (7 out of 10) - Similar in tempo and mood to "Get On Your Boots" with a less campy feel.
8. Fez - Being Born (9 out of 10) - Eerie and haunting. Features an excellent backbeat. Strong chance that this song will be a long-term favorite.
9. White As Snow (8 out of 10) - Quiet. Reminds me of Bruce Springsteen ballads such as "Sinaloa Cowboys." Intriguing rise new end.
10. Breathe (7 out of 10) - Fits into a strange place between mellow and upbeat. Nice use of harmony.
11. Cedars of Lebanon (7 out of 10) - Disappointing finish to the album. Quiet, but not particularly memorable.

Overall average: 7.3 out of 10

"No Line on the Horizon" is a very "listenable" album. The quality of songs increases from songs 1 to 3 before dipping through songs 4 through 6. The album rebounds strongly with "Fez - Being Born" and "White As Snow" before a disappointing finish with "Breathe" and "Cedars of Lebanon."

I welcome your comments.