Tart Talk: Songs of Innocence and Shots!
A deep dive into U2's album with a spirited twist.
Welcome to another edition of "Kissing Lips and Breaking Hearts" with your favorite hosts, Hillary and Jenny, known collectively as the Garden Tarts. Today, we're diving into the first part of our Tart Talk series on U2’s album "Songs of Innocence."
FIND IT HERE
The Tradition
Every year, the Garden Tarts choose an album to dissect, and this year, it's all about "Songs of Innocence." True to tradition, our hosts take a shot after discussing each track—a playful nod to Bruce Springsteen's songwriting celebrations. For this session, they crafted a sweet concoction featuring banana liqueur, white chocolate liqueur, vodka, and butterscotch schnapps. As Jenny puts it, "It's like bananas foster!"
A Controversial Release
U2's "Songs of Innocence," released on September 9, 2014, stirred quite the buzz—not just because of its content but due to how it landed on everyone's iPhones. In a deal with Apple, the album appeared automatically in users' music libraries, sparking outrage from many who felt their personal space had been invaded. As Hillary quipped, "People got very angry over it, almost like Bono had dipped their phone in acid."
Despite the controversy, it's worth noting that the album itself is a solid piece of work. Bono described it as a deeply personal exploration of the band's origins and inspirations. "We wanted to make a very personal album. Let’s try and figure out why we wanted to be in the band, the relationships around the band, our friendships, our lovers, our family," Bono explained.
Behind the Music
The album was recorded across numerous studios, including Electric Lady in New York and The Church in London, over five years. It features producers like Danger Mouse and Paul Epworth and includes singles like "The Miracle (of Joey Ramone)" and "Every Breaking Wave."
"Songs of Innocence" is an introspective journey that explores firsts in the band's life—geographical, spiritual, and sexual. Bono emphasized its lyrical cohesion, likening it to a concept album, though he insists that wasn't the intention.
WATCH OR LISTEN!
Looking Forward
Join us next week as we continue our deep dive into U2's "Songs of Innocence." With more tracks to explore and more shots to take, the Garden Tarts promise a lively discussion that’s as personal and reflective as the album itself.
Thanks for tuning in. Until next time, keep those glasses raised and those hearts open.