Reviewed by John Cheek

Due to copyright issues leading to distribution problems, We Get to Carry Each Other is only available in the UK by mail-order. But it's worth the purchase - especially if you've ever wondered why critics and authors have spent so much time pondering the lyrics and spirituality of one of the world's most popular rock bands. This book by American professor of English and theological writer Garrett follows on from Steve Stockman's Walk On, and is the second book to focus primarily on U2's Christian beliefs. Because of this at first I wondered if it was necessary? The better biographies of the band had successfully understood and interpreted this aspect of their sensibility, and Stockman's meticulously-researched title had charted the spiritual as well as artistic developments of the Irish megastars. But my ambivalence melted-away, as Garrett wisely steers-clear of replicating such reportage, instead approaching the subject from a different angle: the theological. Stockman and Garrett probably smile wryly whenever they encounter Christians demanding proof that U2 are "real Christians"; Greg here sets out his case for U2 as a powerful influence on, and example to, the Church-at-large. The author ignores their influence on other bands, to consider the group as a political and spiritual phenomenon. Whilst not the first to view them on such a level, Garrett does so by relating them to various writings from Thomas Merton, Rowan Williams, N T Wright and others, and so sheds fresh insight into their lyrical concerns and the context of their fundamental message. The three sections: Belief, Communion and the real heavyweight, Social Justice, give strong analytical reflection on the band's motives and inspirations - as opposed to checking to see if they tick the right doctrinal boxes. It left me thinking, of all the great eras of popular music I wish I'd lived through.the '60s and what it meant; the punk revolution. I realised that we're living through a great era, now - one where we can savour truly great Christian art, all the while we have U2. Not everything Garrett asserts I agree with: his description of "Do You Feel Loved", as a song about eros-love, is off the mark; not least as he accurately interprets "Yahweh", similar in lyric, as a contemporary yet mystical understanding of God. But these are minor quibbles. In a marketplace full of lurid rock-star exposes, this is a book refreshingly life-affirming.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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