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Harry Crosbie: 'U2's Album is Best to Date'

U2's new album reminds me of the Beatles, says 02 chief

Dublin Evening Herald, December 12, 2008

He admits he's not the most impartial source, but Point Village owner Harry Crosbie is hailing U2's new album as their best to date.

The affable developer of the sprawling new O2 arena joined two of the band's stars in the venue last Sunday as Bono and the Edge filmed footage there for a new Ronnie Drew special.

And Harry, who has been friends with the superstar band for years, told the Diary how he was blown away when he heard material from their new album.

"I think it's the best thing they have ever done and I am not just saying that because they are my friends," he said.

"It is a stunning piece of creative work and, to me, it reminds me of the Beatles when they were at their best. It's a fabulous piece of work."

Bono and the Edge became one of the first artists to perform at the new O2 venue after Harry enticed them down to his new multi-million euro venue.

But he laughed: "I've been looking after them for many years and they decided to repay the favour, so they did a little private concert and the sound was studio perfect. When we were waiting to listen to them, Bono was messing around doing opera and we could hear it crystal clear on the back seats, with no microphones. It was a great day."

His concert venue will now play host to a bevy of superstars over the coming weeks, including Coldplay and Kings of Leon.

The one artist that Harry is determined not to miss is U.S. troubadour Bob Dylan, whom he last met with U2.

"The last time we saw him was in Vicar Street and this time he is bringing us out for our dinner so I'm definitely not going to miss that!" he added.

Meanwhile, Bono's wife Ali Hewson is leading the race to be named the Sexiest Other Half. Organised by events website entertainment.ie, she is currently out in front in the accolade for the hottest partner.

Hot on her heels though is Sean Moncrieff's wife, Bridget, followed by Lorraine Keane's singer hubbie, Peter Devlin. In the Sexiest TV Presenter category, Caroline Morahan is out in front, followed by sexy cook Louise Lennox from The Afternoon Show.

The TV Show of the Year accolade has TV3's Irish Apprentice in pole position, with voting in all the categories staying open until December 21.


© Evening Herald, 2008.