"I don't think any of our work has ever come full circle to that extent," says the Edge, referring to 1987's The Joshua Tree. It's been 30+ years since the album first hit the world, and Bono and co. went on a Joshua Tree Tour in 2017, on which the band revisited songs like "Exit," "Trip Through Your wires," "In God's Country," "Where The Streets Have No Name," and of course, "With Or Without You." Released in the Reagan-Thatcher era of world politics, the tunes take on new meaning & relevance in the context of current social and political climate. U2 took a chance w/ 1984's The Unforgettable Fire as more ambient, atmospheric sounds took center stage. With that said, The Joshua Tree combines the intricate layers that decorated The Unforgettable… with the aggressive sound of 1983's War, and what comes forth is an undeniable rock record that has sold over 25-million copies worldwide. If you're a fan and have yet to secure a copy of this LP, this is the version to get. This limited edition 2018 reissue is presented on 180g gold colored vinyl and includes a LP-sized 8-page booklet of lyrics, credits, and photographs.

• 180g gold colored vinyl pressing
• remastered sound
• includes LP-sized 8-page booklet of lyrics, credits, photos
• gatefold jacket w/ printed innersleeves
• music label: Island Records 2018

reviewed by enbee 02/2017