u/FactEquivalent3911

Hello! I think the shift from the Pop era of U2 to All That You Can’t Leave Behind was arguably the biggest change in the band’s sound and image. Unfortunately, I wasn’t alive at the time, so I’m curious for those who were there at the time.

What was the transition from Pop to ATYCLB like from 1997 to 2000? What was the general news, discussion, and expectation around the band during that period? What were you personally expecting from the next album after Pop, and what were your first reactions when All That You Can’t Leave Behind came out?

Hey guys, im a huge u2 fan, and I’m really getting into Coldplay because they seem to have this same spark similar to u2. so far the songs that really connect to me and are my fav so far are “in my place”, “Crests of waves”, “animals” and “trouble” any other songs that you would recommend that follow this sort of same vibe? Thank you! Looking forward to listening to your recommendations!

I think Achtung Baby is song for song the greatest U2 album. It’s insane. Every song feels perfect, the emotions, this sort of darkness is something I’ve never heard before from other rock records. But I personally enjoy POP more. Although I feel like I should enjoy AB more on paper, But pop just does it for me.

The highs on Pop hit harder for me. I think part of it is the size and insanity of the PopMart Tour. Everything felt huge and alive and the band looked like they were genuinely having fun instead of trying to be mysterious or overly serious. It’s also one of the only eras where Bono feels like himself and not trapped in some character.

I fucking love Zoo Station, but then I put on Discothèque and I’m having FUN. It’s chaotic and weird and confident in a way I love. I guess it could just be a personal thing where I don’t live the overly seriousness that the songs on AB have. And obviously there are times where there’s a need to be serious, but I prefer just having fun. And pop has those serious moments and lyrics but they’re wrapped in this over the top glitter wrapping paper with a dangling lemon on the side…