Book On U2 Released in Japan

(Tokyo)-Walk On: The Spiritual Journey of U2 a book which takes a close look at the Grammy award winning group's spiritual influences and messages was published recently in Japan by Gakuyosha Publishing in association with MJM Entertainment Group.

"We are very excited to be able to work with a group that has been well so received all over the world," said Keisuke Morioka, president of Gakuyosha. "We are proud to bring a new level of intimacy between the band and our nation, not just the rock star image, but a personal story that anyone can relate to on some level."

"U2 has a strong following in Japan and we think the book will help Japanese fans understand the band's spiritual journey and how their spiritual beliefs have influenced their music," noted MJM's Mark Joseph.

To present the band's background, the book starts with general questions for frontman Bono. Moving to the music, the text starts from the beginning of their studio releases and presents lyrics from songs that present profound thought.

Sometimes the book simply prints the lyrics of a song. Other times the author delves into the spirituality present, providing insight on the lyrics and in at least one instance, devotes an entire chapter to a single song (chapter 4 is entitled "Sunday Bloody Sunday").

"There are fascinating insights into the music of U2 that can only be glimpsed with an insight into the faith that underpins their worldview," noted author Steve Stockman. "I hope that my own insights might help us all get even more out of the most significant band of the last twenty-five years."

The book will cost fans of the band eighteen hundred yen and contains a discography of the band from 1979 through 2004.