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How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb

Credits

Release Date

Record Label

Performance

Reviewer

Adam R. Holz
Bob Smithouser

Album Review

Pro-Social Content

The tension between conviction and temptation creates “Vertigo.” True love requires more than romance (“A Man and a Woman,” “Miracle Drug”). “City of Blinding Lights” ponders the presence and absence of beauty in a relationship. Lines from that song (“I knew much more than I do now”) and “Love and Peace” (“As you enter this life I pray you depart/With a wrinkled face and a brand-new heart”) value the wisdom that comes with age. The band continues to infuse its lyrics with spirituality that, while often cryptic, suggests a transcendent hope. On “Yahweh” lead singer Bono humbly offers himself in service (“Take this shirt and make it clean … Take this soul and make it sing”). “All Because of You” thanks God for life itself. Written for his father, “Sometimes You Can’t Make It on Your Own” addresses our need to lay pride aside and accept help from others—especially family.

Objectionable Content

None

Summary Advisory

U2’s 11th studio album is a powerful, poetic, optimistic study of life’s mysteries.

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adam-holz
Adam R. Holz

After serving as an associate editor at NavPress’ Discipleship Journal and consulting editor for Current Thoughts and Trends, Adam now oversees the editing and publishing of Plugged In’s reviews as the site’s director. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children. In their free time, the Holzes enjoy playing games, a variety of musical instruments, swimming and … watching movies.

Bob Smithouser