Mysterious Ways Review

07/13/2005 6:14 AM, AMG


This CD single is the second released from U2's 1991 album Achtung Baby. It contains five versions of the psychedelic rock anthem, including four remixes. Of course there is the album version, but fans of this particular track will enjoy hearing slight reinterpretations with each subsequent mix. The "Solar Plexus Extended Club Mix" greatly increases Bono's shouting, sprinkles in some new guitar riffs, and adds various R&B rhythms effectively. The "Apollo 440 Magic Hour Remix" is actually three minutes shorter than the "Solar Plexus Extended Club Mix," but (with indulgent chimes and water dripping effects) feels more like an overextended ballad. The "Tabla Motown Remix" isolates and lowers Bono's vocals while removing the arena rock feel of the music, a choice that violates the fun feeling of the original. The "Solar Plexus Club Mix" is very similar to the original album mix, but with a strengthened backbeat that is a slight improvement over the original. Overall this is a good collection of remixes, but after a few listenings, it makes you wish for some non-"Mysterious Ways" B-sides. (The CD cover fits together with the covers of "The Fly," "Even Better Than the Real Thing," and "Who's Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses" to make one large poster. This cover is the lower left hand quadrant.) ~ JT Griffith, All Music Guide