In a place called Music City USA, what could be better than great music? Music for a great cause of course….especially when UZoo is headlining it.
On Tues. Dec. 18 at Mercy Lounge, I had the unique experience of enjoying UZoo, the authentic U2 Tribute Band as they helped raise money for Trezo.org during the Billy Block Show.
When UZoo takes the stage there is an undeniable passion and energy that is unlike anything else you will find in Nashville. UZoo is an unpredictable breath of fresh air in a music scene that can often be predictable.
With Boneaux (Bono) as the vocalist, Chris Simeone (The Edge) on guitar, Davin McLaird (Larry Mullen Jr.) on drums, and Mathew Chapman (Adam Clayton) on bass, this group successfully meets and exceeds expectations when bringing U2 classics.
“Beautiful Day” showcases just how much range Bono’s voice really has. Sporting his cool shades and hitting every note with perfection, it is clear that the man behind Bono’s tribute voice is the real deal, as is his band who knows how to flawlessly portray the men of U2.
UZoo knows how to slow down and speed it up, bringing a variety of tempos. “Vertigo” was another extra notable performance, as the word “rockin” was an understatement.
“With Or Without You” showed just how well this tribute band works together as a team. From beginning to end, these four put on a strong performance that will never be forgotten by any who were in attendance.
UZoo also performs the other hits that you would get to hear at U2 concerts such as “Where The Streets Have No Name,” “Pride (In The Name Of Love),” “Magnificent,” and more.
Though UZoo simply has a goal of humbly bringing fans a U2 kind of experience, I heard more than one U2 fan in attendance admit that they find UZoo to sound even better live than the official U2. UZoo of course are big fans of U2, and as a result, they are just trying to bring that priceless U2 experience to the Nashville stage. It is obvious though that I am not the only one who thought they mastered the task before them. UZoo undoubtedly has the ability to gain new fans everywhere they go.
This U2 Tribute Band definitely brought a memorable performance, but it was clear that they knew they were at Mercy Lounge for a bigger purpose. As the group spoke about Trezo, they spoke with conviction and hope.
“There’s such a huge need out there. It is easy to get intimidated and think what can I do? But here’s a group that pushes through that. They think together if everybody gives a little…than they can conquer the world,” said David McLaird (Larry Mullen Jr.).
“The guy that’s doing the cause is a good friend of mine. Bob VanFleteren is a real passionate guy. His whole life is about serving other people,” said Mathew Chapman (Adam Clayton).
In regards to UZoo being a part of the benefit lineup VanFleteren said, “I’m super grateful for their willingness to help us. The school is a totally grass roots effort. Building this school in Haiti is incredible.”
“We’re just excited that we’re able to do this – to help raise money for young children. We’ve envisioned opportunities like this – to help change lives and to make lives better through these kinds of events. We’re honored that we’re here,” shared Simeone (The Edge).
In case this is your first time hearing about Trezo, they are a Nashville-based non-profit organization that supports an intimate, community-based Christian day school in Cayes-Jacmel, Haiti. The school provides a place of safety, education, nutrition, and healthcare for a small group of children (currently 85). Trezo helps provide what they lack. Proceeds from this particular concert will be used to help Trezo raise funds to acquire land and build solar-powered school with its own fresh-water well and toilet system in Cayes-Jacmel, Haiti next summer. For more information, check out www.trezo.org
To read more about UZoo and to find out the dates their upcoming shows, visit www.u2act.com
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