U2: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb **** (Universal). Despite the ponderous title, U2 isn't on a peacemaking mission. Sure, Bono's hobby horses are present and big issues are tackled, but Atomic Bomb is the sound of U2 getting personal and back to basics. The Edge leads the way with layers of arena-sized guitar, from the rifferama of Vertigo to the swamp groove of Love and Peace or Else and the intimacy of One Step Closer.

JEFF CRAWFORD