Comic Timing

7 Oct 2005
Four songs plus comedy and chat with Conan O'Brien last night.

In a great hour's late-night viewing Larry revealed his distress that the band he formed were never called 'The Larry Mullen Quartet' and Adam disclosed how Bono had originally wanted to be the band's guitarist.. and then the manager.

O'Brien was evidently delighted to have U2 taking over his stage and sofa - and with lots of fans in the house, it felt almost like a U2 show. The presenter knew most of the audience already. He'd been outside earlier in the day shooting a very funny quiz spot with fans: from Bono's birthday to song lyrics (true or false) and and even some maths!

As for the show itself: in 12 years of presenting this was a highlight, said O'Brien, the biggest band in the world performing in his little studio.

A dazzling rendition of All Because of You was followed by Edge taking part in a surreal futuristic comic quiz. After a break all four gathered on the couch for a very laid-back interview. Then came a neat surprise, a beautiful version of Original of the Species followed by more chat with Bono about his campaigning work in the fight against global poverty.

Returning to their instruments, Bono and Edge broke into Stuck In A Moment, joined by Adam and Larry and three horn players from the Max Weinberg 7. Vertigo brought the proceedings to a euphoric close. Great show, great night!

To see clips, visit NBC here

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