U2 -'Angel of Harlem'

Recollection Collection, a chance to share some of my favourite tunes!

U2 - 'Angel of Harlem' (1988)

If there's one non Christmas, Christmas song that reminds me of this time of year, then this is it. Probably helped by the fact that it actually was a cold and wet December day sitting wrapped up in a freezing kitchen in Hounslow with only the radio for warmth. Ol Pa and I were on one of our forays to the real world (UK) from Saudi Arabia, to stock up on supplies, not too dissimilar to the 'rice run' from the book, The Beach. Our house we rented out whilst we were abroad was empty, gas and electricity cut off as I think the tenants had scarpered, hence we sat there like frozen sausages. The sacrifice was worth it though as I'd be taping all the tunes off the radio, safe in the knowledge that I'd return home to a heroes welcome, with all the latest flavours.

The Angel of Harlem

For the few days we were there, U2's homage to Billie Holiday made an impression on me. It was, I suppose, U2's Blues/Soul phase with Rattle and Hum and I loved the sentiment, the Big Band sound, great riff and organ. It was just a complete song for me which still happens to evoke vivid memories of that time. 

Still haven't found what you're looking for? Try some more of my favourites here......

by Flycasual