This month the cover stars are Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen Jr of U2. Inside, over 14 pages, there is a veritable U2-fest, with specific reference to the band’s 11th studio album, How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb: Bono writes RC a letter about that 2004 LP and offers his “unreliable recollections” of the sessions and writing process; The Edge explores the events and emotions behind the making of the album; Adam Clayton looks beyond it for a freewheeling conversation about the past, present and future of the band, 45 years since their debut release; and John Coleman compiles a discography of U2’s recordings of the century so far.
Elsewhere in this issue we continue with RC’s ongoing celebration of our 45th anniversary with a special feature on the 45 best singles ever released by Manchester artists. Mike Batt proves he is the Zelig of pop. Redd Kross offer ample evidence that they may be the punk-rock Osmonds. The Chesterfields reveal themselves to be quintessential C86 indie popsters. Cherie Currie remembers the halcyon days (phrase used advisedly) of The Runaways. Brand New Heavies put the funk’n’soul into acid jazz. Joey Santiago of Pixies chooses the records that have soundtracked his life to date. We spend 33 1/3 minutes with Leo Sayer. And we offer the ultimate overviews of new albums and reissues from The Cure, New Order, Queen, Phil Manzanera and more.
The Fat Angel Sings 