It's been a few years, but U2 will finally return to Denver — on June 12, at the Pepsi Center. If you're impatient, on a budget and/or prone to arena-phobia, however, you have another option: Under a Blood Red Sky. Since 2005, the Denver-based band has paid tribute to Bono and crew by staging faithful and elaborate facsimiles of U2 performances of the past and present — including a triumphant Red Rocks concert in 2007 that re-created U2's legendary appearance at the venue 24 years prior (one that's captured on the live album and video Under a Blood Red Sky). Granted, UABRS relies heavily on props, costumes and impeccably chameleon-like musicianship — but frontman Billy Bunting plays the role of Bono to the hilt, including all the requisite stage moves and bombastic vocals. Minus, one would assume, the messiah complex.

Under a Blood Red Sky plays at the Boulder Theater, 2032 14th Street, tonight at 9 p.m.; admission to the 21-plus show is $12. For tickets and info, call 303-786-7030 or visit www.bouldertheater.com.
Sat., Jan. 9, 9 p.m., 2010