Your iPod playlist for the wait to grab prime U2 concert field spots at Aloha Stadium is officially set. "U218 Singles," the first single-disc set spanning the band's 26-year career, is now in stores and on iTunes. Hits and only hits are the focus of its 18 tracks, from the expected ("With or Without You," "Mysterious Ways," "Vertigo") to a couple of new Rick Rubin-produced tracks ("The Saints are Coming" with Green Day, "Window in the Skies"). A limited-edition disc includes a DVD of U2 playing live in Milan, Italy, in 2005. U2 plays the final date of its "Vertigo Tour" in Honolulu with Pearl Jam opening on Dec. 9.

— Derek Paiva

MUSICAL CHAIRS

SEE BILLY UP CLOSE

When Billy Joel performs at 8 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Blaisdell Arena, he'll be behind a revolving piano — so a block of seats behind the stage has been released. This means audiences will get a 360-degree look and listen, since there will be no customary backdrop behind the stage. The upper area seating is closer to the stage than most main-floor seats, perfect for an up close and personal experience. Tickets are $65 and $95; (877) 750-4400. Joel will also play the Maui Arts & Cultural Center at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 in the A&B Amphitheater ($75, $95; plus premium seating); (808) 242-7469, www.maui arts.org.

— Wayne Harada

FINAL WORD

"If you're going to try and change things, you'd better be prepared to find yourself in the headquarters of hell. That's just how it works."

Madonna | in Time magazine