LONDON:

Irish rock band U2, used to filling the world’s biggest venues, played a surprise gig

on November 23 in a London church before just 250 people.

Lead singer Bono — real name Paul Hewson — and guitarist The Edge — David Evans — turned up to perform a low-key acoustic set at the Union Chapel in Islington in north London.

The crowd had no idea U2 would feature among the acts at the Little Noise Sessions in aid of Mencap, a British charity working with people suffering from learning disabilities.

Event curator Jo Whiley, a BBC radio disc jockey, introduced the “very special guests” by telling the puzzled crowd that guitarist Dave was nervous, as he had only been playing the instrument a few weeks.

“The singer, Paul, is a shy guy, so please be gentle with him,” Whiley said, before Bono and The Edge emerged.

They played Stay (Faraway, So Close!), Desire and Angel Of Harlem before performing Wave Of Sorrow in public for the first time. The song was originally written to appear on their 1987 album The Joshua Tree.

The duo received a standing ovation for their four-song set. U2 bassist Adam Clayton was in

the gallery. They were the first artistes up and were followed on stage by Liam Fray of The Courteeners, We Are Scientists and Biffy Clyro. — AFP