Irish rock giants U2 have stunned an audience in London by making a surprise appearance at a celebration of Island records.
Island Records turns 50 this year. A distinctive voice in an industry often overwhelmed by submission to the status quo, the label began life as a small outlet in Jamaica. Moving to England, founder Chris Blackwell soon discovered a healthy market for reggae and other Caribbean forms.
Greats such as Bob Marley and Peter Tosh were soon whizzing through the offices of Island Records, not that it gained the founder much respect - Tosh soon began referring to Chris Blackwell as 'White-worst'.
With its seminal Witchseason offshoot Island managed to house albums by such stunning talents as Nick Drake and John Martyn, but remained wary of the punk explosion. In the late 70s an unknown group from the rock 'n' roll backwaters of Ireland came onto the radar of the label, who promptly snapped them up.
U2's determination to succeed was matched by Island's complete faith in their artistry. A perfect match of band and label, U2's partnership with Island has remained one of the strongest in the music industry.
The label is holding a series of concerts to celebrate its birthday, with acts from throughout its career performing sets. Their most recent success, Amy Winehouse, has already been forced to pull out, however.
U2 took to the stage at London's Shepherd's Bush Empire, joining Baaba Maal in a rendition of their 'Achtung Baby' classic 'One'. Playing acoustically, the stripped down version left audiences members stunned.
Bono had earlier introduced Mall onstage claiming "I have a friend a brother who really takes care of everything. We share the respect of Nelson Mandela's vision. We need people to understand. We didn't make it yet but we are on the way. As we continue fighting poverty especially on the continent of Africa."
The band then played short version of the Bob Marley classic 'Feel Alright' before climaxing with their own 'Vertigo'.
U2 are currently in the middle of their spectacular 'No Line On The Horizon' tour. Promoting their recent smash hit album, the tour has kept ticket prices low as a reward for fans in difficult economic conditions.
However this hasn't stopped the Irish legends from indulging in their usual tomfoolery - U2 are set to emerge onstage beneath an enormous claw.
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