Pop by U2 just turned 23 years old. I remember the day the record came out and how the eclectic set of tracks were equal parts surprising, arresting and inspiring. Achtung Baby and The Joshua Tree were always firm favourites, and still are, but this was such an eye opening, ambitious record that transported me to somewhere utterly magical and new. The band themselves later said it felt unfinished to them, as they were up against a time crunch with their touring deadline, but to me it has everything and has possibly become my favourite of them all (even if many other fans I know don’t hold it in high regard) It took weird turns, wasn’t afraid to fail, had vibrant arresting playful artwork, took lyrical and sonic leaps, and most of all had an authentic musical heart at it’s core that they always have had. Spinning the record tonight and I’m reminded of the magical possibility in all creativity and art. Take big chances. Try new things. Go to new places. And an audience will find you. Sometimes it takes 23 minutes, sometimes 23 years. And even if they don’t, that creative leap can lead to new ideas and avenues that continue to pop (pun intended) and echo long afterwards in ways you can’t imagine.