Songs of Experience
by U2
User Score
7.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 191 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 135 out of 191
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 191
  3. Negative: 40 out of 191
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. leftygroove
    Dec 1, 2017
    1
    What happened U2? This album sounds like something Maroon 5 would be ashamed of. They've been progressively getting worse with every album after Pop. Still love 'em live.
  2. revanb
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    U2 evolves from album to album, never settling to do quite the same thing twice.

    Songs of Experience is a slightly dark, but joyous and thrilling experience. Qualities that endeared the masterpiece which is Achtung Baby to me. Songs of Experience has the same effect, achieved it in a new way.

    Another masterpiece!
  3. originalfoo
    Jan 12, 2018
    9
    A vastly underrated effort. In my opinion, among their best work without Eno or Lanois. Less bloated than its far inferior predecessor -- they are not trying to pull a hit single out of every track "Revolver" style. Also it feels as their most "edge" album since Zooropa. Very satisfying!
  4. Music_Observer
    Dec 21, 2017
    7
    U2 continue to do what they’ve always done and find inspiration through politics and love, though this individual passion project shows an absence of musical care and reliance on intuition over potential, which still produced some forceful choruses and nice delicate guitar textures to make it more enjoyable than much of today’s popular market. My Score: 129/180 (Good) = 7.2/10
  5. antmolly1995
    Dec 10, 2017
    1
    U2 clearly have no sense of direction left otherwise they wouldn't put their name to an album like this.

    I've been a fan from the beginning, but no longer. I'm done.
  6. VDS
    Dec 1, 2017
    2
    I don’t know this band anymore. To say they’re not what they were is a gross understatement. The well ran dry a long time ago, and they stopped trying after Pop failed. From there on it’s been a downward spiral, each new album marking the next embarrassing step on the path of talentless money.

    Dodgy lyrics have always plagued them, but here, blimey it’s all cringeworthy. The bass might    I don’t know this band anymore. To say they’re not what they were is a gross understatement. The well ran dry a long time ago, and they stopped trying after Pop failed. From there on it’s been a downward spiral, each new album marking the next embarrassing step on the path of talentless money.

    Dodgy lyrics have always plagued them, but here, blimey it’s all cringeworthy. The bass might be turned right up on most tracks, but it can’t hide the terror of Red Flag Day, Get Out Of Your Own Way, You’re The Best Thing…where’s the energy, the urgency and the balls to try something new? Their collective accountants and bank managers will quite like this record, first off because it’s bland bank manager music, and secondly because it’ll probably sell to completist fans and Cold Play devotees.

    Back in the day, I feel they would have laughed at songs like The Showman. Poor old MacPhisto must be turning in his grave if he’s unlucky enough to hear The Little Things That Give You Away. The whole album’s like a collection of very dodgy B-sides.

    It’s a shame to see how the once mighty have fallen. Stadiums everywhere prepare to be battered by this rubbish, and the usual back catalogue of hits that will mark another globe trotting money grab.

    Songs Of Experience, and the experience is bad.    … Expand
  7. HannahK
    Dec 9, 2017
    2
    The positive reviews must surely come from die hard fans only. While I'm not exactly a fan, I have admired some of U2's work, so am no hater by any means. This album, even after repeated listenings just left me cold.
  8. kirsten123
    Dec 5, 2017
    1
    U2 have been in decline for what seems like an eternity. 'Songs Of Experience' is in my opinion the sound of a band that has nothing left to offer. Time to call it a day boys.
  9. SgtPepper67
    Dec 6, 2017
    2
    I tried listening through a couple more times. I found the songs dragging and listless. Amateurish. Most of the songs, the arrangements and the production killed it. Not at all sounding like the greatest rock band in the world. Most songs seemed to start slow and never rocked me. Oh boy Bono. You didn’t carry your end here. You’ve lost touch to think these lyrics were good. They have to beI tried listening through a couple more times. I found the songs dragging and listless. Amateurish. Most of the songs, the arrangements and the production killed it. Not at all sounding like the greatest rock band in the world. Most songs seemed to start slow and never rocked me. Oh boy Bono. You didn’t carry your end here. You’ve lost touch to think these lyrics were good. They have to be local and specific. You’ve written some of the greatest lyrics of all time. You start getting philosophical and they...well they sound like this... They once had a method for build ups and kick ass choruses. Verses you wished you wrote and loved to sing out loud. I didn’t get that this time. I love an ingenious U2 ballad too. They were ok. No “it’s a wonderful day” energy. No rocking like the “Sunday Bloody Sunday” gritty kick ass drum sound. “You’re the best thing about me” had potential but then went disco-ish for the bridge. A maybe song fumbled. “Get our of your own way” was blah and the lyrics were really lame. “Red Flag Day” was ok. I had to wait real long for it but it finally rocked a little with a strong ending. “The little things you give away” had that old school Edge and U2 sound but it was barely a shadow of a flashback.I know this is another era. I know they’ve worked for years at changing it up and growing ala their idols The Beatles. I just didn’t find one song that I could crank that brought that U2 energy and rocked the house. Don’t get me too wrong. There are great songs on here that, to me, as a life fan, just didn’t get to that energy level they can bring like no one else. A great song has great verses, choruses, bridges. ABACAB. They’d get one part and blow the next part of the song. Or the lyrics were distracting. Maybe it was the production. I wanted to be wowed and blown out with brand new songs. I’m embarrassed for them. They’ve jumped the shark.… Expand
  10. lenny68
    Dec 4, 2017
    1
    Another cynical, joyless arena/corporate rock offering from a once inventive band. U2 have been steadily going down hill for years but this is arguably a career nadir.
  11. egreiner
    Dec 6, 2017
    10
    The biggest issue with this album is the production, which partially strips the band of its 'U2ness' in pursuit of a more pop sound. Perhaps some of the lyrics are also a bit much. However, the songs here are still overwhelmingly U2, and written in the anthemic way only U2 can manage. I agree with a critic who cited this as a "late career classic"; the songs draw fittingly upon the soundThe biggest issue with this album is the production, which partially strips the band of its 'U2ness' in pursuit of a more pop sound. Perhaps some of the lyrics are also a bit much. However, the songs here are still overwhelmingly U2, and written in the anthemic way only U2 can manage. I agree with a critic who cited this as a "late career classic"; the songs draw fittingly upon the sound that U2 has developed and perfected over the past 40 years. U2, and more particularly Bono, have no shortage of critics. However for the moaning that one hears about them 'selling out' theres an impressive lack of evidence. I have never seen a band stick more closely to it's guns after such a long career than U2.… Expand
  12. fuzzynavol
    Dec 8, 2017
    3
    I hate to trash one of the greatest bands of all time, but this is another embarrassment to their legacy. I had to go back and listen to War just to get the taste out of my mouth.
  13. MES
    Dec 15, 2017
    9
    I'm sort of shocked by some of the haters out there. While I'm not a huge U2 fan, I am a fan of well-constructed, thoughtful and tuneful music. U2 scores on all three counts. While I liked No Line and Songs of Innocence, this album is far superior. There is almost no filler (not a fan of Landlady, but some good lyrics). The rest of the songs boast compelling lyrics, catchy melodiesI'm sort of shocked by some of the haters out there. While I'm not a huge U2 fan, I am a fan of well-constructed, thoughtful and tuneful music. U2 scores on all three counts. While I liked No Line and Songs of Innocence, this album is far superior. There is almost no filler (not a fan of Landlady, but some good lyrics). The rest of the songs boast compelling lyrics, catchy melodies and unassailable musicianship. I consider this album one of the top 10 of the year. It doesn't break any molds or trailblaze like the work of Kendrick Lamar (who appears on this album), David Bowie or Frank Ocean, but this is U2 at the top of their game and no one can argue that their game is anything less than stellar. I think history will view this album as one of their strongest ones.....but then, history is slow to pass any judgments.… Expand
  14. pekoe
    Dec 11, 2017
    2
    I bought JT on the day it was released and I was listening to nothing but this band for years prior. It pains me to say that they may have finally reached Bono's oft referenced point of no longer being relevant. The Sonic Architect (Edge) of the band is no longer breaking new ground and Bono's lyrics are as painful as listening to him speak in an interview (platitudes anyone?). TheI bought JT on the day it was released and I was listening to nothing but this band for years prior. It pains me to say that they may have finally reached Bono's oft referenced point of no longer being relevant. The Sonic Architect (Edge) of the band is no longer breaking new ground and Bono's lyrics are as painful as listening to him speak in an interview (platitudes anyone?). The production work is obvious and overwrought and nothing here qualifies as experimental. Every previous U2 had something positive to offset what I didn't like, but I'm struggling with this one.… Expand
  15. Ricko
    Apr 6, 2018
    9
    The internet would have you believe U2 are the most hated band in the world. Their ticket sales and to a slighty lesser extent, album sales suggest another story. I liked many elements of its predecessor, "Songs of Innocence" although I felt the songs came across far better when played live than on the record with a mix of producers resulting in a inconsistent feel. Having been a huge fanThe internet would have you believe U2 are the most hated band in the world. Their ticket sales and to a slighty lesser extent, album sales suggest another story. I liked many elements of its predecessor, "Songs of Innocence" although I felt the songs came across far better when played live than on the record with a mix of producers resulting in a inconsistent feel. Having been a huge fan for 20 years plus I was always going to be looking forward to this album even though I can't say I was blown away by the first 2 singles (the albums only truly poor song "The Blackout" and the sanitised Stones sounding "You're The Best Thing About Me"). I did like "Get Out Of Your Own Way" though and when I finally got to hear the full album I found the rest of the material far more interesting and emotive. "The Little Things That Give You Away" ranks among the bands best songs and the album deserves to be heard for this track alone. "Lights of Home", "Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way" and "Landlady" are other tracks that build to a point where the listener is truly sucked in. "Summer of Love" and "Red Flag Day" at the centre of the album are other highlights. Essentially, if you took off a few of the lead singles, the album demonstrates a surprising level of brilliance considering how many miles are on the clock for the band. In summary, it's not perfect and it's not necessarily fresh but it does have some of their strongest work in decades. Unusually for these lads, the second half of the album is the stronger side in my own humble opinion. It's bursting with tunes and melody and I love that. Music is all about enjoyment and "Songs of Experience" has bought me a lot of that.… Expand
  16. oliverw
    Jan 22, 2018
    2
    I witnessed with horror over the years as U2 and Coldplay were heading towards each other, colliding like the andromoder galaxy into the milky way, but U2 have now just gone further and sound more like Coldplay than Coldplay.
  17. dcmedo0
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    What a beautiful album this is. Full of great melodies, lyrics and vocals. No band should be writing songs this good 40 years into their career. Bono sings like a 20 year old on this record. The Edge does a great job of holding the songs together with some very neat and minimalist guitar parts. The rhythm section sounds very solid, specially the bass parts. All in all I would say thisWhat a beautiful album this is. Full of great melodies, lyrics and vocals. No band should be writing songs this good 40 years into their career. Bono sings like a 20 year old on this record. The Edge does a great job of holding the songs together with some very neat and minimalist guitar parts. The rhythm section sounds very solid, specially the bass parts. All in all I would say this ranks as one of their best. One of the few albums I have liked on just the first listen. Stand out songs for me are the breathtaking "Little things that give you away" which I cannot get out my head right now. Some other highlights are "Love is all we have left", "Red flag day", "Landlady", "Summer of love" and "Lights of home".… Expand
  18. DrBlahBlah
    Dec 4, 2017
    3
    Awful from start to finish. The lyrics are hilarious (unintentionally of course), the hooks and melodies are lifeless and derivative, and the overall messages are equal parts trite and insufferable.
  19. Butterbean1
    Dec 8, 2017
    1
    U2 have been treading water for a long time now but with Songs Of Experience I think they've finally gone under. Maybe all they care about now is filling stadiums and making money from the unwavering 'faithful' content to listen to anything they put out; even rubbish like this.
  20. raciocinio
    Dec 14, 2017
    8
    Is like a "Guilty Pleasure" U2 Album, seeing the Standard of U2 Albums, and before others U2 Fans criticize me, i'm not even talking about U2 Very Famous Standard Quality albums like The Joshua Tree or Achtung Baby.

    Because for me "All That You Can't Leave Behind" & "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb" is two U2 Masterpiece for 21st Century. But talking on the good side of this record, me    Is like a "Guilty Pleasure" U2 Album, seeing the Standard of U2 Albums, and before others U2 Fans criticize me, i'm not even talking about U2 Very Famous Standard Quality albums like The Joshua Tree or Achtung Baby.

    Because for me "All That You Can't Leave Behind" & "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb" is two U2 Masterpiece for 21st Century. But talking on the good side of this record, me like "an old U2 fan" i see A Slight improvement against the last album SOI that for me and my family that also is huge old U2 fans is almost U2 "Rock Bottom", Songs Of Innocence is half saved of a total disaster thanks to 4 or 5 good songs what to make worse is basically on the first side of album.

    SOE is Slight improvement to SOI, and is almost on the Standard of NLOTH, But in Resume U2 still can not return to their his time of glory.

    Doesn't need to make another TJT or AB, like U2 most new fans wrongly thinks that "We Wanted" We that are U2 most critics fans of recent years and equally critics of their last albums.
    i clearly know that U2 still can not reach the High Standard that they reached in All That You Can't Leave Behind 2000 and How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb 2004 albums.

    Apart for great lyrics of course tracks like "American Soul" "Lights of Home" "Raised by Wolves" "Volcano" "This is where you can reach me now" "Sleep Like a baby Tonight" is some of U2 "Worst songs of recent years". Very bad awful and uninspired melodies.

    Don't forget that U2 reach the Well Deserved slogan "of the Greatest and Best band of world", only because of their Great lyrics but also because of their Great and Beautiful melodies, and are in this last and highly important aspect that U2 Come Sinning Lately.    … Expand
  21. bevok
    Dec 12, 2017
    8
    I quite enjoyed the singles that preceded this album, and listening to it through its a cohesive album. The tracks have the classic U2 sound but with some contemporary touches and great tunes. The album rewards repeated listens. Standout tracks for me were "Love Is All We Have Left", "You're The Best Thing About Me", "Get Out of Your Own Way" and "Red Flag Day", but I don't think there areI quite enjoyed the singles that preceded this album, and listening to it through its a cohesive album. The tracks have the classic U2 sound but with some contemporary touches and great tunes. The album rewards repeated listens. Standout tracks for me were "Love Is All We Have Left", "You're The Best Thing About Me", "Get Out of Your Own Way" and "Red Flag Day", but I don't think there are any duds. There have been some negative reviews but from what I've seen they're either people who expected another Joshua Tree or alternatively some completely fresh new sound (unnamed). Listening on its own terms, a very enjoyable album.… Expand
  22. SuperMax156
    Dec 3, 2017
    3
    U2 have reached their Rolling Stones phase, in that it has been a long time since they made a great album, every release has 2 or 3 good songs on it, but the rest is filler. The Kendrick Lamar rap at the beginning of American Soul made me feel embarassed for U2, Its a shame because this was once a great band but now they are a cabaret act.
  23. SHADOSTRYKR
    Dec 2, 2017
    3
    The songs they released as singles are the only good ones, Mediocre album with 2 good songs. A lot of "samey" sounding songs as well. U2 should hang up the guitar straps.
  24. Jmoro
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    After a few lesser albums with NLOTH and SOI, U2 punches back with the late career classic that SOE is. While it doesn't contain any catchy hit single like Elevation or Vertigo, the album is very strong as a whole without any skip track. For me, the track American Soul is the worst of the record, but works well within the context of the album. Get out of your own way reminds of BeautifulAfter a few lesser albums with NLOTH and SOI, U2 punches back with the late career classic that SOE is. While it doesn't contain any catchy hit single like Elevation or Vertigo, the album is very strong as a whole without any skip track. For me, the track American Soul is the worst of the record, but works well within the context of the album. Get out of your own way reminds of Beautiful Day, while the finale of The little things that give you away reminds of the magnificent unreleased Mercy. The biggest winner from the album, however, is 13 (there is a light) which is U2's best album closer since Love is Blindness and is perhaps even better than that one.
    Of course, the album is not an Achtung Baby or a Joshua Tree, but that's something that no one could ever demand from a band that's already 40 years into business. Instead, SOE is a magnificent piece on its own, that should be cherished for what it is: A great cohesive album that 's produced by old rockers who still care about making great music. The many references to Songs of Innocence, some obvious (American Soul recycling parts of Volcano, 13 (there is a light) recycling parts of Song for Someone), some subtle (Lights of home, with lyrical connections to Iris) are very well done.
    When listening to the album, you will realise that the amount of emotions covered on this album is probably the largest U2 has ever covered on any album. And that's a big enough achievement for this album to get rated with 5 stars. Songs of Experience is therefore a truly joyful experience on its own, that should not let anyone with soul unmoved.    … Expand
  25. neonfeldman
    Dec 1, 2017
    9
    This is the bands finest collection of songs in 20 years. While it doesn't hit the highest peaks, it also doesn't reach the low points we've seen in albums like ATYCLB, Bomb and No Line on the Horizon. The amazing part is that there are SO many very, very good songs, in fact, its nearly impossible to choose a favorite. And only about 2 songs that I find to be good, but not great.
    Its an    This is the bands finest collection of songs in 20 years. While it doesn't hit the highest peaks, it also doesn't reach the low points we've seen in albums like ATYCLB, Bomb and No Line on the Horizon. The amazing part is that there are SO many very, very good songs, in fact, its nearly impossible to choose a favorite. And only about 2 songs that I find to be good, but not great.
    Its an emotional album. Catchy songs with dark content, beautiful atmospheres we've not heard before.
    It's a late career classic    … Expand
  26. zainraza23
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    I was wary of this album based off the first few songs. Seemed slightly too commercial and overproduced. Upon listening to the album as a whole, my fears were unfounded. Coherent. Fresh. A Classic.
  27. hone_w
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    U2 have crafted their most lyrically, musically and emotionally nuanced album in 20 years.
    The collection of songs doesn’t only gloriously showcase U2’s return to form, but takes a new step forward that sees the band write songs that are deeply personal and musically and lyrically so perfectly married. It evoke emotions and expressions that i haven’t had listening to music in a long time    U2 have crafted their most lyrically, musically and emotionally nuanced album in 20 years.
    The collection of songs doesn’t only gloriously showcase U2’s return to form, but takes a new step forward that sees the band write songs that are deeply personal and musically and lyrically so perfectly married. It evoke emotions and expressions that i haven’t had listening to music in a long time and certainly not today in the age of over produced synthetic sounding music.

    U2’s finest work this century, after All that you can’t leave behind.    … Expand
  28. maxpouliot
    Dec 1, 2017
    9
    Great album. Lots of great songs. Lights of Home, The Little Things That Give You Away and Landlady are superb songs. Album is a joy to listen and one of the best of 2017
  29. the5chord
    Dec 2, 2017
    9
    Very solid Album. Probably the best of the new millennium. Edge is in the background for most of this album which will put out some guitar gunslingers. If you can get past that there are some great tunes here. One of the best surprises for me was The Showman. U2 is the Tom Hanks of rock and roll. What they do seems so effortless we forget how hard it is to pull off.
  30. KleWdSide
    Dec 8, 2017
    8
    It's probably one of U2's best albums to come out in a while. For the first time in years, most of the songs are quite enjoyable and don't feel like filler. Since the "It's Cool to Hate U2" bandwagon still exists and iPhone users are still whining about freebie album from 3 years back, unfair criticisms are inevitable. There's also some fans that so naive to think a band that's been outIt's probably one of U2's best albums to come out in a while. For the first time in years, most of the songs are quite enjoyable and don't feel like filler. Since the "It's Cool to Hate U2" bandwagon still exists and iPhone users are still whining about freebie album from 3 years back, unfair criticisms are inevitable. There's also some fans that so naive to think a band that's been out for over 30 years will come out with an album on par with "The Joshua Tree" and "Actung Baby." So.... take the negative reviews with a grain of salt & listen to the album with realistic expectations.

    Songs to look out for: Lights of Home, Summer of Love, The Little Things That Give You Away, The Blackout, Love is Bigger than Anything In Its Way    … Expand
  31. DavidWasHere
    Dec 1, 2017
    7
    This album was much better than what I was anticipating. While the production neuters a lot of the rock crunch that could give the songs more impact and power and there are times where the band make concessions to pop sounds, it's a focused and at times rocking album, at least compared to the mess that was Songs of Innocence. I can't say that this is another War or Joshua Tree or even AllThis album was much better than what I was anticipating. While the production neuters a lot of the rock crunch that could give the songs more impact and power and there are times where the band make concessions to pop sounds, it's a focused and at times rocking album, at least compared to the mess that was Songs of Innocence. I can't say that this is another War or Joshua Tree or even All Things You Can't Leave Behind, it certainly does feel like U2 in their natural ballpark with the broad yet gospel-like lyrics, Bono's wide range as a vocalist, and the Edge's signature spaced out and minimal yet melodic guitar work. it does feel business as usual for these guys, but honestly I'll take it!… Expand
  32. Prosmooth
    Dec 2, 2017
    5
    Like every album since Pop--I've listened to it 5 times to give it a chance, and it just doesn't work. It's boring. Their last great album was Zooropa. There have been some great songs since then, but the albums just haven't been very strong at all.
  33. FartyFartslot
    Dec 9, 2017
    8
    I love how the positive, yet constructive, reviews are the ones getting downvoted. Clearly orchestrated by members of the "I hate U2" bandwagon who have a goal to clearly undermine how most people really feel about it. Get a life...
  34. arikkfir
    Dec 1, 2017
    8
    Wonderful album, with earnest attempt from U2 to conquer the world [just one more time], and while despite trying, they haven't quite reached the stars - they've definitely picked the moon from the sky, and served it wrapped in a glamorous and optimistic wrap that lifts you up in its place.
  35. buckaroo
    Dec 1, 2017
    9
    Love this album. Joyful, atmospheric and haunting all in one. Summer of Love, Little Things, Red Flag Day are standouts. Their best album of the 2000s.
  36. yetino
    Jan 2, 2018
    10
    U2s new records suffer from being constantly compared to either Achtung Baby or The Joshua Tree and hence such low ratings mostly from so called professional critiscs who wait for another breakthrough album. Whereas the lastest album proves that the band is still one of best in the world - relevant as ever. Beautifully crafted songs with powerful lyrics - pure pleasure to listen to,U2s new records suffer from being constantly compared to either Achtung Baby or The Joshua Tree and hence such low ratings mostly from so called professional critiscs who wait for another breakthrough album. Whereas the lastest album proves that the band is still one of best in the world - relevant as ever. Beautifully crafted songs with powerful lyrics - pure pleasure to listen to, especially after few listens as U2's albums always need time to be fully appreciated.
    Some complain that SoE is like listening to Coldplay - maybe the sound is a bit Coldplayish in its atmosphere but let us not forget that it was Coldplay that U2 inspired and they set off on their musical journey some twenty years later. The beautifully haunting and ambient Love is All we have left brings the memories of Unforgettable Fire and then it is almost every track that brings something from Achtung Baby, Joshua Tree or certainly SoI. The only track that sounds bit flat is American Soul, but it does not spoil the whole impression that it is yet another strong album of the band that brings joy and hope to millions of fans worldwide.    … Expand
  37. mariasiracuse5
    Dec 4, 2017
    10
    I have no words to express how beautiful this album is. It is the most vulnerable/authentic U2 has ever been. Bono's voice is majestic, his heart is open for everyone to see and feel. This surpassed my expectations. This album, in my opinion, has surpassed AB and JT to become my #1 favorite.
    This album is a new, fresher, more relevant U2. An emotional roller coaster. Beautiful    I have no words to express how beautiful this album is. It is the most vulnerable/authentic U2 has ever been. Bono's voice is majestic, his heart is open for everyone to see and feel. This surpassed my expectations. This album, in my opinion, has surpassed AB and JT to become my #1 favorite.
    This album is a new, fresher, more relevant U2. An emotional roller coaster. Beautiful soundscapes sprinkled with pain, joy, love, Jesus.    … Expand
  38. ArmandoJunior
    Dec 4, 2017
    10
    Wonderful album. Lots of great songs. This album is a joy to listen and one of the best of 2017. U2 have crafted their most lyrically, musically and emotionally nuanced album in 20 years. Congratulations U2
  39. Shades36
    Dec 5, 2017
    9
    Stunning album full of beautiful tunes loved the first 6 songs instantly & honestly wasn't fussed on the second half of the album but after about 10 listens it really has snuck up on me & my god I can't get enough of it every time you listen to it a new sound will catch your attention & make it even better my favourite's at the moment are love is all we have left.lights of home.littleStunning album full of beautiful tunes loved the first 6 songs instantly & honestly wasn't fussed on the second half of the album but after about 10 listens it really has snuck up on me & my god I can't get enough of it every time you listen to it a new sound will catch your attention & make it even better my favourite's at the moment are love is all we have left.lights of home.little things that give you away landlady & bonus track the book of your heart what a gem… Expand
  40. tandream
    Dec 17, 2017
    10
    Their best album from 2004. This album contains the real U2 band without any contamination and reassume all their best in any song you could listen to. Very appreciated and a great surprise. The Bono Vox testament of his music and voice.
  41. chucavox
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    Fourteenth album, fourteen best tracks. New hymns for a collection that features more than one hundred and fourteen songs. P.S love, love, love Book Of Your Heart ....for me, the number one...Others:The Little Things That Give You Away. Red Flag Day. Summer Of Love, Get Out Of Your Own Way, Lights Of Home....complicated to choose.
  42. JaggedLittlePil
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    U2 managed successfully to make again a great album. We can't compare Songs Of Experience to their old masterpieces like War or Achtung Baby, they belong to an old and far past. Songs of Experience is about this world, it talks about it in its lyrics and its music and it does it in a great way. Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way, The Little Things That Give You Away and 13 areU2 managed successfully to make again a great album. We can't compare Songs Of Experience to their old masterpieces like War or Achtung Baby, they belong to an old and far past. Songs of Experience is about this world, it talks about it in its lyrics and its music and it does it in a great way. Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way, The Little Things That Give You Away and 13 are masterpieces and Red Flag Day, with their typical '80s sound is just the best uptempo from a lot of time. I totally love it, I totally love the "new" U2.… Expand
  43. guilherme_soi
    Dec 10, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Songs Of Experience is perfect in all the ways. The lyrics, the songs... Is a complete journey to U2's world. The Little Things That Give You Away is one of the most beautiful songs by U2 of all time for example. I'm so glad to be a fan of this guys… Expand
  44. hasin73
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    The best U2 album of the last 20 years of their amazing career. The highlights : Little Things, Landlady, Lights of Home, Blackout, 13, Summer of Love & Love is Bigger than anything. But other songs are also better than 99% of today's chart-topping songs. U2 will endure for years to come.
  45. jimmypowder
    Dec 7, 2017
    2
    The worst release by U2 in the bands history and I’m a huge U2 fan . I couldn’t get past the first three songs . Just horrific . Joshua Tree it is not .
  46. Pao_fin
    Dec 10, 2017
    9
    A bit less rock than what I'd have liked but it's still a great album. As usual with U2 the best part is the lyrics and this album delivers and delivers. Together with a couple of forgettable ultra pop songs, there're many others that send shivers down your spine. Given the due time they'll probably be the band's new classics.
    Landlady and Lights of Home, just to name a few, will be    A bit less rock than what I'd have liked but it's still a great album. As usual with U2 the best part is the lyrics and this album delivers and delivers. Together with a couple of forgettable ultra pop songs, there're many others that send shivers down your spine. Given the due time they'll probably be the band's new classics.
    Landlady and Lights of Home, just to name a few, will be really something to remember when played live.
    Looking forward to the next tour!    … Expand
  47. Edge72
    Dec 10, 2017
    8
    As good as Songs of Innocence but without the fillers. Last two albums has been an improvement and I think are the best after Zooropa. Outstanding production and strong songwriting.
  48. Mr-Voorhees
    Dec 16, 2017
    10
    U2 is one of, if not, the most polarizing bands in history. They have made a few mistakes/rubbed people the wrong way but none of that should affect their music. People act like disliking them it the "cool" thing to do but why? Because they skirted their taxes around Ireland? Big deal, tons of celebrities do. They have done more for this world than any other band, their music is soU2 is one of, if not, the most polarizing bands in history. They have made a few mistakes/rubbed people the wrong way but none of that should affect their music. People act like disliking them it the "cool" thing to do but why? Because they skirted their taxes around Ireland? Big deal, tons of celebrities do. They have done more for this world than any other band, their music is so positive and uplifting. Not to mention the One and Red Campaign for AIDS and Africa.

    U2 is EXACTLY what the world needs right now and this album proves it. Definitely their best since HTDAAB (and before that Achtung Baby). All they really want to do is make a difference with their music and this album is a perfect example. So happy they still make music and want to change the world. Keep it up boys!    … Expand
  49. Primrosehill
    Dec 16, 2017
    3
    They try but something has gone missing. Only a couple of songs are alright but otherwise the production is somewhat horrid. Remembering how utterly fresh and capable their sound was in the early years. As a longtime fan these last albums have been disappointing but well, we all get old.
  50. u2fan
    Dec 20, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. My favorite album by U2

    Power full, complete. My favorite song at moment is Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way.

    The live versions on BBC Special was awesome. Lights Of Home was the best one in my opinion. Love it!    … Expand
  51. Tom_Bombadil
    Dec 3, 2017
    7
    Their best record in a long while! It doesn't hold up perfectly all the way through, but the great songs are surprisingly good and do not feel at all "tired" like most of the music from their previous records. "Get Out of Your Own Way" paves the way for memorable U2 melodrama in 2017. I'd wish we just had an a bit more active The Edge. That's all.
  52. summit
    Dec 8, 2017
    9
    No Doubt much better than Songs of Innocence. At least this time the Production seems on track. We can't compare all the time each new released album back to Achtung Baby. Move on!!
  53. Ginger64
    Dec 8, 2017
    9
    To me, The Unforgettable Fire is U2's best album. Something about that got to me emotionally almost immediately. SOE has had the same impact. And it has not waned after about 50 listens. It is truly an amazing album full of diversity of emotions, styles, themes and lyrics. It's heavy, light, epic, intimate, political, personal, spiritual. The weakest song is "You're the Best Thing AboutTo me, The Unforgettable Fire is U2's best album. Something about that got to me emotionally almost immediately. SOE has had the same impact. And it has not waned after about 50 listens. It is truly an amazing album full of diversity of emotions, styles, themes and lyrics. It's heavy, light, epic, intimate, political, personal, spiritual. The weakest song is "You're the Best Thing About Me," and even that is ok as it flows well as the third song on the album. Every band member is at peak form (though i could've used more searing solos from Edge). I agree with the reviewer who said something like you may just come to listen to one song, but you'll stay for more, if not the whole album. It pulls you in again and again. "The Little Things That Give You Away" has to be the best song i've heard in years by any band, young or old. (And i listen to a TON of new music of all genres.) It's that amazing. It's heart breaking and Bono has never sounded as vulnerable or as brave on a song. I can't believe "Summer of Love" wasn't the first single. It should be released as a single right away. Actually, there are so many songs that could be released as singles. "Red Flag Day" or "Love is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way" or "Lights of Home." The opener "Love Is All We Have Left" is captivating, eerie, cosmic and personal all at the same time. "Get Out of Your Own Way" has one of the best choruses (bridges?) of a U2 song in ages -- the "I can sing it all night...but it's your fight" part -- spoiled only by the fact that they don't come back to it after the guitar solo, coming back instead to the "Get Out of Your Own Way" refrain. Can't believe all the band members and the hordes of producers let that happen (this song, which is great otherwise, is also somewhat spoiled by the drums sounding oddly muted...just like they did on "Miracle Drug"; why the producers keep hosing Larry, i'll never understand). I also wish they hadn't included the new mix of "Ordinary Love" (though it's a better version of the song than the original) as a bonus track...it's just not as melodic as the rest of the album and the band should've instead tried for a more rocking (even throwaway) song. All other bonus tracks are so worth it, especially "Book of Your Heart." People may not like U2 or any of the songs for whatever reason, but they can't deny that these are honest songs. This is them being authentic. That they can pull it off so melodically after so many decades should inspire younger bands. It's interesting to me how some critics only aspire to self-congratulatory writing when reviewing U2 albums ("I told those guys who's boss and made my still-mad-at-Songs of Innocence-auto-downloading-audience happy with me."), or so easily slag Bono for being Bono, while ignoring the fact that every musician, artist, politician or average Joe who's ever met or spent some time with any of U2 members has amazing things to say about them (ok, not counting Liam Gallagher). With such a strong album so late in its career, U2 is making history.… Expand
  54. Arsebandit
    Dec 3, 2017
    9
    First off, this is a very, very good album. Period. It is also U2's best for a long time. The only problem with this album is whether or not you still want to listen to a band that has continued to claw at the title of biggest of band of the 80's, 90's, 00's... and so on. And with U2 comes a lot of baggage along with expectation, and a fair degree of cynicism (most of which isFirst off, this is a very, very good album. Period. It is also U2's best for a long time. The only problem with this album is whether or not you still want to listen to a band that has continued to claw at the title of biggest of band of the 80's, 90's, 00's... and so on. And with U2 comes a lot of baggage along with expectation, and a fair degree of cynicism (most of which is unjustified). The last time they made another attempt for the throne they downloaded themselves onto everyone's iphone, thankfully this time they are leaving the audience to choose if they want to listen to them. And quite frankly, they really should, because this is a keeper. The opener, "Love is all we have left" is a lovely thing, a warm and understated gem. The bombast kicks in on "Lights of Home", a proper U2 song, familiar, but with a nice mean guitar riff to elevate it. "Your the best thing about me" is a song I initially didn't like, but has really grown on me over time, assured and melodic. "The little things that give you away" is probably the best thing on the album, a song that easily could stand with any of their earlier greats. After the weak "Songs of Innocence", this album reaffirms this bands ambition and quality. Bottom line is this is one damn fine album from a band still full of confidence in what they do and clearly still loving it.… Expand
  55. walden54
    Dec 1, 2017
    9
    40 years, 14 albums later and this band are still as creative, engaged and as relevant as ever, the U2 iconic sound is still there but it sounds fresher and younger one of the best records this year.
  56. alexandrefenot
    Dec 3, 2017
    10
    Probably one the best album of U2 and for sure the best since How to dismantle an atomic bomb. After the semi deception of Songs of innocence this album is s slap in the face , a reminder that U2 is still here and capable of transporting you far far away . You can ear all the band , voice guitar bass drums. It s a perfect combination . Summer of love gives you goos bumps and red flag dayProbably one the best album of U2 and for sure the best since How to dismantle an atomic bomb. After the semi deception of Songs of innocence this album is s slap in the face , a reminder that U2 is still here and capable of transporting you far far away . You can ear all the band , voice guitar bass drums. It s a perfect combination . Summer of love gives you goos bumps and red flag day sounds like the Old days of Sunday bloody sunday. i am Speechless , for me the best rock album for the past 15 years , a master piece , a musical jewel to listen again and again ..........… Expand
  57. LoRevisor
    Dec 1, 2017
    8
    No geral eu me sinto meio "Guilty Pleasure" por gostar do novo álbum Songs of Experience do U2, Por conta da demasiada simplicidade de todas músicas praticamente, melodia, e a produção peca um pouco ou muito resultando no resultado final das músicas, The Blackout é um excelente exemplo.

    Mas ao mesmo tempo a simplicidade melódica das músicas, me agradar pois são bem feitas nas maiorias    No geral eu me sinto meio "Guilty Pleasure" por gostar do novo álbum Songs of Experience do U2, Por conta da demasiada simplicidade de todas músicas praticamente, melodia, e a produção peca um pouco ou muito resultando no resultado final das músicas, The Blackout é um excelente exemplo.

    Mas ao mesmo tempo a simplicidade melódica das músicas, me agradar pois são bem feitas nas maiorias das músicas.
    Mas as músicas estão infinitamente longe da grandeza das músicas do álbum de 2000 "All That You Can't Leave Behind", ambos são álbums com melodias simples, mas ATYCL se sucedeu melhor justamente pelo fato do U2 não demostra grande inspirações para excelentes músicas desde lançamento do álbum "No Line On The Horizon" parece que Depois do álbum "How to dismantle an atomic bomb" o U2 vem se preocupando mais com grandes letras que na verdade eles semprem fazem, mas parece que desde NLOTH o U2 não está quase ligando para como suas músicas soam, se soam desinspirado com melodias de mediana para ruim, ou se soam com grandes melodias parece que desde do album do Horizonte o U2 se perdeu em achar grandes e lindas melodias, o que eu acho triste e decepcionante, pois não só com grandes letras o U2 eram conhecidos mas também com uma grande e importante segunda virtude Excelentes melodias e Músicas.

    Mas acho que o U2 superou-se "um pouco" do fraco penúltimo álbum o irmão Songs of Innocence (2014), ainda acho que o U2 deve e é capaz de entregar um outro álbum no nível do All That You Can't Leave Behind e How To Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, na minha opinião os 2 últimos grande albums do U2 na verdade as duas últimas duas obras-primas do U2.

    Destaque para a linda música de introdução "Love is all we have left", "The Blackout", "The Showman (Little more Better)",
    "You're The Best Thing About Me", "The Little things that Give you Away", "Love Is Bigger than Anything in it's way", "Landlady" e "13 (There is a light)".    … Expand
  58. bonneria
    Dec 1, 2017
    10
    Every u2 album does that U2, reason to live, connecting now to eternity to ancient truth, like the music just arrives But this.. this album, Songs of Experience, after a few listens.. oh man. It's like after all these years they actually decided to try.
  59. cjboog
    Dec 1, 2017
    9
    Songs of experience is U2’s most focused, melodic album in a long time. I agree with critics who’ve said it feels like the band is on a mission again. A strong album from start to finish with few weak spots and many highlights. The songwriting is crisp, modern, and emotional without being over the top. If you have to pick one song, try “Red Flag Day” and turn it up loud!
  60. Renatao
    Dec 15, 2017
    7
    Acredito que no geral o álbum ficou num nível bom, mas nada comparado aos grandes álbuns da carreira da banda. Tem algumas músicas boas, umas poucas excelentes e algumas ruins. No geral a nota 7 seria a mais compatível com o nível do álbum.
  61. imafallguy
    Dec 4, 2017
    7
    Sonically pleasurable and harmonically complex- yet lyrically uneven, Songs of Experience continues U2's tradition of iterative album release evolution but dips just a toe into the boiling waters of their enduring rock-rage legacy.

    Given the events of the past few years, this critical listener was hoping for (expecting?) a full speed, full tilt, War-cry cannonball. That said, it's    Sonically pleasurable and harmonically complex- yet lyrically uneven, Songs of Experience continues U2's tradition of iterative album release evolution but dips just a toe into the boiling waters of their enduring rock-rage legacy.

    Given the events of the past few years, this critical listener was hoping for (expecting?) a full speed, full tilt, War-cry cannonball.

    That said, it's imperative to keep in mind that even a merely "decent" U2 release still stands as a rather excellent album in the broader sense. Both a blessing and a curse if you happen to be The Greatest Rock Band on the Planet.

    Standout tracks such as Red Flag Day and American Soul more than hint at an earlier, angrier U2 and will surely compel you to test the theoretical limits of your stereo's amplification capabilities. On balance, SoE is a fine listen, but one can't help but to question why, in 2017 no less, U2 appears to be tapping into some kind of zen-like social commentary restraint and a bottle full of Prozac. Maybe the band feels the best antidote for a dark world is aural hope, and to listen to Bono explain it, that's the impression one gets. Noble? Perhaps. Emotionally riveting? Less so.

    Songs of Innocence turned the metaphorical panopticon 180 degrees inward and the album was wildly successful by nearly any metric because of the unbridled passion that arose from that unrelenting insight. Say what you will about the distribution method (I don't turn my nose up at free stuff), but SoI captured an inner turmoil that only U2 could render so sonically exotic.

    Songs of Experience continues to prove that after all these years and releases, U2 still hasn't lost their way or their will, but with only a small handful of notable exceptions, the only edge you'll find here is the one holding the guitar pick.    … Expand
  62. Thenewone
    May 18, 2018
    8
    es muy mejor que su débil gemelo predecesor, no es un excelente àlbum, lejos de ser uno dos mejores àlbum de U2, ni es uno de los mejores álbums de U2 de este siglo, ATYCLB y HTDAB es los 2 mejores álbums de U2 deste siglo, y NLOTH es el tercero muy lejos, pero es bien mejor que SOI.

    Punto culminante LandLady The little things that give you away The Blackout You're the best thing    es muy mejor que su débil gemelo predecesor, no es un excelente àlbum, lejos de ser uno dos mejores àlbum de U2, ni es uno de los mejores álbums de U2 de este siglo, ATYCLB y HTDAB es los 2 mejores álbums de U2 deste siglo, y NLOTH es el tercero muy lejos, pero es bien mejor que SOI.

    Punto culminante
    LandLady
    The little things that give you away
    The Blackout
    You're the best thing about me
    Love is bigger than anything in it's way
    The Showman (little more better)    … Expand
  63. AspectWindow
    Jun 4, 2018
    9
    A bit of a return to form, showing some of the energy they likely found in themselves while touring the anniversary of The Joshua Tree last year. No real new ground, but a lot to please fans.
  64. sicrano
    Mar 22, 2018
    8
    Parece que o U2 não está muito inspirado desde do How To Dismantle an atomic bomb, Songs of Innocence então foi o fundo do poço, no lado bom Songs of Experience é bem melhor que o Innocence.

    Mas ainda não é suficiente para aquela que já foi a melhor banda de rock de todos os tempos. Highlights: Landlady, Love is bigger than anything in it's way, The Blackout, Love is all we have    Parece que o U2 não está muito inspirado desde do How To Dismantle an atomic bomb, Songs of Innocence então foi o fundo do poço, no lado bom Songs of Experience é bem melhor que o Innocence.

    Mas ainda não é suficiente para aquela que já foi a melhor banda de rock de todos os tempos.

    Highlights: Landlady, Love is bigger than anything in it's way, The Blackout, Love is all we have left, The Litlle Things that give you way, The Showman (Litlle more better), You're the best thing about me, & Get out of our own way.

    Really Terrible and the worst song of the album: American Soul

    Could be way better: 13 (There is a light), Summer of love, Lights of home.    … Expand
  65. NolanLundgaard
    Mar 25, 2020
    8
    Songs of Experience by U2: 7.23

    Love Is All We Have Left: 0.5 Lights of Home: 1 :) You’re The Best Thing About Me: 1 :) Get Out of Your Own Way: 1 American Soul: 0.75 Summer of Love: 0.75 Red Flag Day: 1 :) The Showman (Little More Better): 0.75 The Little Things That Give You Away: 1 Landlady: 0.5 The Blackout: 1 :) Love is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way: 1 13 (There is    Songs of Experience by U2: 7.23

    Love Is All We Have Left: 0.5
    Lights of Home: 1 :)
    You’re The Best Thing About Me: 1 :)
    Get Out of Your Own Way: 1
    American Soul: 0.75
    Summer of Love: 0.75
    Red Flag Day: 1 :)
    The Showman (Little More Better): 0.75
    The Little Things That Give You Away: 1
    Landlady: 0.5
    The Blackout: 1 :)
    Love is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way: 1
    13 (There is a Light): 0.75
    Ordinary Love: 1 :)
    Book of Your Heart: 0.75

    12.75/15 = .85 -> 7.23

    Another awesome album by U2! At first I had my doubts, as the album was delayed for a while after its intended release, but Songs of Experience was definitely worth the wait! It’s a splendid continuation of U2’s previous album, Songs of Innocence, and puts a new spin on some of the songs of the previous album (Lights of Home with Iris, American Soul with Volcano, etc.). There weren’t really any songs I didn’t like, although Love Is All We Have Left and Landlady were kind of bland musically, and American Soul was slightly repetitive. Besides those, this is a another successful album from U2 and I would recommend it to all rock fans. Highlights: Lights of Home, You’re the Best Thing About Me, Get Out of Your Own Way, Red Flag Day, The Little Things That Give You Away, The Blackout, Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way, and Ordinary Love.    … Expand
  66. reviewsandstuff
    Nov 3, 2018
    6
    (Conor's Reviews & Stuff - Facebook)

    U2 is a machine. An industry all its own. An institution built up over 40+ years that has withstood critical and commercial bashings of awesome proportions. From 1997’s epically overcooked (or undercooked, depending who you ask) ‘Pop’ which was the album equivalent of a car rolling over because it came into a corner too fast, to a miscalculation of a    (Conor's Reviews & Stuff - Facebook)

    U2 is a machine. An industry all its own. An institution built up over 40+ years that has withstood critical and commercial bashings of awesome proportions. From 1997’s epically overcooked (or undercooked, depending who you ask) ‘Pop’ which was the album equivalent of a car rolling over because it came into a corner too fast, to a miscalculation of a different sort, 2014’s ‘Songs of Innocence’, which will sadly be remembered more for the method by which it was delivered than for its moments of brilliance (sparse though they were). Yet still they have endured, seemingly quite effortlessly. U2 don’t care if you hate them. However insufferable you think they are, they are more than happy to play to the stadiums that they regularly pack for strings of nights, and if you never get it, it’s no skin off their nose.

    How peculiar then that a band who have become so adept at rumbling through outside opinion like an icebreaker have now released an album which could be considered their most self-conscious to date. In some moments, open examination of many of the traits that have so aggravated their nay-sayers (see ’The Showman [Little More Better]). But Bono has been a pariah to the ‘NME’ crowd for so long that he likely won’t even be given credit for agreeing with them.

    ‘Songs of Experience’ has been touted by some critics as U2’s best album this century. I remain of the extremely unpopular opinion that that honour rests with 2009’s ‘No Line On the Horizon’, the first of two consecutive albums which took five years to produce, the second being the aforementioned ‘Songs of Innocence’, which dealt, lyrically, with the band’s formative years and, for its faults, stuck faithfully and, in my opinion, effectively to its personal, introspective theme. ‘Experience’, on the other hand, can’t decide whether it wants to be personal or political. Much has been made of U2 writing politically over the years. Indeed, some reference to it can usually be found in the first few lines of any brief biography of the band. U2’s political peak came on November 8th, 1987 at McNichols Arena in Denver, Colorado. During a performance of ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday’, Bono passionately condemned an IRA bombing which had taken place that day in Northern Ireland. That performance was recorded for the band’s ill-fated documentary/album ‘Rattle and Hum’ and I defy you to watch it without getting chills. Since then, nothing they have done in that sphere has had quite the same bite, though altruism abounds. I remain staunchly convinced that U2 are at their best when they direct their lens inward rather than out, the results being their gloriously inventive 90s decadence, best represented by their masterpiece, 1991’s ‘Achtung Baby’, which remains one of the most important albums in alternative rock music.

    The band’s decision to ‘rethink’ this latest album following Donald Trump’s election seems to have significantly muddied the thematic waters of ’Songs of Experience’.

    Musically, this album is certainly an achievement for U2. At times, U2 flex their considerable muscle at turning out some of the best stadium pop rock commercially available, as well as some uncharacteristic textures that work out rather well, most notable on the moody opener 'Love Is All We Have Left'.

    The heights that 'Songs of Experience' hits are as significant as any they’ve hit since ‘Beautiful Day’. Vibrant front half track ‘Get Out of Your Own Way’ may well be U2’s last great jewel, but the dips are too low for this album to be considered any great triumph.    … Expand
  67. TheRaggedFlygon
    Mar 10, 2019
    7
    Songs of Experience is a MASSIVE improvement over the unwanted Songs of Innocence. This album has several songs that sound more in line with classic U2 works. A lot of tracks still feel generic and some have lyrics that feel forced. Nevertheless, there are a couple of really good additions to the U2 discography of this record.

    This is the group's best album since "How to Dismantle an    Songs of Experience is a MASSIVE improvement over the unwanted Songs of Innocence. This album has several songs that sound more in line with classic U2 works. A lot of tracks still feel generic and some have lyrics that feel forced. Nevertheless, there are a couple of really good additions to the U2 discography of this record.

    This is the group's best album since "How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb", but they will need to continue working at it if they ever hope to release an album that could contend for one of their best works.    … Expand
  68. Critine
    Oct 11, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The 14th Studio album braces worldwide change that leaves U2 to form their own Rock ‘n Roll sanctuary on Songs of Experience. Compelling bass lines and engraving lyrics along with Edge’s amazing performance on The Blackout leaves the audience in shock and awe. These elements were sadly not present on their last 2 albums Songs of Innocence (which this is a sequel to) and No Line on the Horizon. Seeing these elements again brings a smile upon my face.

    However some songs can get too political. For example the 2nd verse in Get Out Of Your Own Way, with the “face of liberty is starting to crack”, referencing Bono’s opinion on American democracy which in this case, is degrading.

    Overall, this album is a blast and will go down as one of U2’s finest. Well done!    … Expand
  69. Austerlitz
    Aug 21, 2020
    9
    Un très bon disque de U2, toujours en forme. Intéressant de bout en bout. Petit bémol peut-être au niveau de la cohérence.

Awards & Rankings

23
#23 Most Discussed Album of 2017
19
#19 Most Shared Album of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 28
  3. Negative: 1 out of 28
  1. Record Collector
    Jan 5, 2018
    60
    The emotional climax of The Little Things That Give You Away is one of several moments that promise more than the album as a whole can deliver.
    Read full review
  2. Spin
    Dec 19, 2017
    60
    Songs of Experience, clicks into place more boldly than Songs of Innocence did three years ago. Tempos are alert, riffs punchy, melodies sharp. ... It’s also too bad the album’s second half gets stuck in pensive midtempo mode and never recovers.
    Read full review
  3. Clash Music
    Dec 12, 2017
    70
    It may not even share the same ambition as ‘No Line On The Horizon’ however, it’s an undeniable improvement on their two misfiring predecessors, marking this collection as their most cohesive and heartfelt in almost 15 years.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »