It's been just over four years since U2 was last in our fair city, and boy did we miss them! Missed them so much that they were able to sell out 4 nights at the Air Canada Centre, and probably could have added a couple more dates in there and sold those out, too.

As the first city on their second visit to North America on the Vertigo tour, Bono's voice was in top form Wednesday night, and the boys were ready to rock with an unparalleled energy. With a heavy focus on the new material, from 2004's How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb, the Irish quartet played heavy on the rock and roll, with a hint of politics thrown into the mix. Hits such as Elevation, Beautiful Day, With or Without You and Sunday Bloody Sunday, much to the crowd's delight, were included in a set that lasted just over 2 hours. But by far, Where The Streets Have No Name, from the Grammy winning The Joshua Tree, completely brought the audience to its feet, with images of the flags of the world scrolling down the giant beads of light that served as the backdrop to the stage.

The very moving Miss Sarajevo had spectators enthralled, and Miracle Drug is quickly becoming a new fan favourite for the live shows. There was even some CanCon on stage. I know what you're thinking, but no, Paul Martin did not come out in leather pants and dark sunglasses to jam with his buddy Bono. Hamilton's Daniel Lanois joined the band on guitar for their final number, Bad, off one of the U2 albums he co-produced, The Unforgettable Fire.

What show would be complete without cool swag? T-shirts were in the $45 neighbourhood, and were selling like mad. Manufactured by American Apparel, you can be sure that the band had something to do with that decision to go with the high quality, sweatshop-free goods. And I have to say, it's one of the most comfy t-shirts I have ever owned!

U2 has proved once again that they still have what it takes to put on a great show, and with as much love as Toronto has showed them this visit, they are sure to return in support of their next musical offering.

Photo credit: U2.com