Next U2 -- Quality or Quantity?


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Mon, 24 Aug 1998 10:19:38 -0400


When discussing what groups have the potential to be the next U2 -- it seems to me that most of you
are judging it on who is selling the most records. I look more at what they are doing creatively.

To me -- Radiohead and Smashing Pumpkins are the only two "popular" groups around that have U2
potential.

Radiohead, and I am a relatively new fan, strikes me as the best choice. For those that do not
think so -- keep in mind that they have only put out 3 albums. Much like U2's first 3 albums, they
were critically acclaimed, sold very well in Europe and each of their 3rd albums began to make
headway in the U.S.

Creatively -- I think Radiohead is moving their career in the same spirit that U2 did and has. They
have evolved and tried different sounds and continue to grow and take chances. I think Radiohead -
if they wanted -- could become huge with their next album. They could pull a JT -- mixing a couple
of more radio friendly songs with their usual mix of mellow, deep and often depressing songs. Like
U2 was at this stage, they are known as critic favorites -- and all it would take was a few more
accessible songs on their next album. However, even if they never have the HUGE album or become the
"biggest band in the world", I think that right now -- they are one of the few bands that come close
to what U2 is all about.

Smashing Pumpkins are my other choice bacause Billy wants to be the next U2. It is very obvious to
me that he wants Smashing Pumpkins to be the next big band. And they, like Radiohead have
progressed their sound -- however they do get a lot of radio play already.

Oasis is a guilty pleasure for me. I don't respect the fact that they have made albums that
basically sound the same, with the same formula. However, I like listening to them.



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