'Country Mile' song lyrics by U2 from 'How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb' sessions

As U2 celebrates the 20th anniversary of How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb, the band has revisited the creative explosion that marked the original recording sessions in the early 2000s. 

During this period, U2 was immersed in both artistic exploration and personal reflection, with Bono processing the grief of losing his father, Bob, in 2001 (refer Sometimes You Can't Make it on Your Own). It was a moment of deep introspection for the band, channeling raw emotion and musical experimentation into their craft.

The reissue of How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb comes with a significant addition: How To Re-Assemble An Atomic Bomb, a shadow album featuring previously unreleased tracks from these sessions. Among the four newly revealed songs is "Country Mile," an emotive piece that captures the visceral energy and sonic storytelling that defined this era of U2’s music. 

According to The Edge, these tracks represent the band’s “raw energy of discovery” and encapsulate the dynamic interaction of four musicians during an intensely creative period. Though left aside at the time, songs like "Country Mile" now offer fans a chance to experience the emotional depth and exploration that U2 initially set out to achieve.

The song itself has structures similar to Winter and Miracle Drug. 

Country Mile lyrics by U2 from How to Re-assemble an Atomic Bomb

I, oh I believe you
I, oh I
I, oh I beseech you
Walk with me
Along this country mile

Desolation
Is never certain
Before the fact out
Hearts are hurting
But she's a-weeping
The moon is not sleeping
The thing we carried
That what's we're keeping
There's not much light on
Side of the road
So we walk as if our eyes are closed
Walk as if our eyes are closed

I, oh I believe you
I, oh I
I, oh I beseech you
Walk with me
Along this country mile

Is it the widе or narrow
The big or little things
That keep you company
As the summеr sings
No use in complaining
The key was under the mat
And if it's raining
You should have thought of that
Of course you should have thought of that

I, oh I believe you
I, oh I
I, oh I beseech you
Walk with me
Along this country mile

I, I, I, I believe you
When you say I
I'm gonna get there
But not unless you help me
Surrender what is lost and found
Silence is the place of sound
To free away what you run to ground
Open up your darkest forest
And leave me where I can't be honest
Breaking up the ice when I go numb
Help you make me hold on so long
Until my race is run

I, oh I believe you
I, oh I
I, oh I beseech you
Walk with me
Along this country mile

-

"Country Mile" stands alongside other previously unheard songs, including "Treason," "Evidence Of Life," and "Happiness," allowing listeners a rare glimpse into U2's creative vault. 

'Country Mile explores themes of companionship, vulnerability, and navigating the challenges of life's uncertain journey. The song reflects a plea for support and connection, as the singer seeks someone to walk with him through emotional and existential struggles. The "country mile" serves as a metaphor for a difficult and possibly lengthy path, symbolizing the trials and unknowns faced in life. The lyrics evoke a sense of desolation, inner conflict, and the human need for trust and faith in others during moments of darkness.

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