Now, is this song about God or a woman? Is it from God to Bono or from God to the church? Or is it from Bono to the church or from Bono to God? Again, that's the genius of U2; writing a song vague enough that anyone can pretty much put their own experience into it. The perfect example and contrast is the fact that people play it at weddings for their first dance or comfort themselves during a break-up with it. See what I mean? Even though I don't understand exactly what the song is about it's gorgeous, and honestly, I can't think of another song that builds and climaxes as perfectly as "With Or Without You" does. My friend Pete does A&R for Epic and he used to give copies of the song to bands and challenge them to write a song as gripping and climactic. Though I remember one that tried, I don't think it's ever happened. I won't sing more of the songs praises because more than likely you already love the song and have played it at your wedding or comforted yourself post-breakup with frozen yogurt and a loud stereo. Instead, I'll move right on to the cover. Scala & Kolacny Brothers are a Belgian girls choir directed and accompanied by two brothers; hence, the Kolacny brothers. It's not often you hear rock songs get arranged for a choir and I suppose that if you were to try your hand at it, "With or Without You" would be a great place to start. My only complaint about the cover is that without the drums and bass, unfortunately the cover doesn't have the punch that the original had. What the cover lacks in emotional punch or yearning, it makes up for in its delicacy and elegance. This one is for Joe, Jen, and Darla Miskov because I know they'll appreciate it the most. If you like this cover they have albums full of covers, including Damien Rice's "Blowers Daughter" and the Verve's "Bittersweet Symphony". Here is the song. Enjoy! |

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Comments
One of the greatest songs ever, no doubt about that. It's the very definition of pure emotion in music. It's amazing that this choral arrangement let's me see a similar picture, but in an all new light. Wow. With the array of harmonies, I don't even mind the lack of instrumentation. These really have been some of the best covers music has to offer.
And hey, I used to really like Sunny Day Real Estate. Even Paramore covers that song.
Stunning. I sent this link on to my 8th grade child's choral teacher at the Charleston County School of the Arts. She'll love it....she may adapt it...I may get to here my boy sing it...oh, the possibilities!