1. Mysterious ways in the set list.
Usual suspects such as "New Year's Day," "Bad" and "Desire" are often missed, but the payoff is more surprises. We don't want to spoil them, but they include a fun opening cover, some of Bono's most personal tunes and several gems not heavily featured in past tours.
2. Go for the opening band.
Amid the yearlong delay and hoopla around TCF Bank Stadium's inaugural concert, Interpol has been somewhat forgotten. The New York quintet comes off like a more melodic Joy Division on stage.
3. Doing good better than anyone else.
All the money from RED Zone seats (about 500 per show sold via auction) goes to AIDS and other disease cures in Africa via the Global Fund and other organizations. The total is estimated to be $14 million by tour's end. A good chunk of change from show profits here also goes to the University of Minnesota athletics department, which many have also deemed needy.
4. We're third to last.
Originally midway through the tour, Minneapolis is now followed only by Pittsburgh and a Canadian finale with Arcade Fire in Moncton, New Brunswick. Besides being tighter musically, bands often loosen up emotionally as things wind down. This is one band liable to get sentimental.
5. Could be awhile before we see them again.
After this past year and a half, one wouldn't fault Bono and the Edge for taking the next five years off.
