5 Iconic U2 Albums You Can’t Miss From Your Collection
Formed in a Dublin classroom in 1976, U2 went on to become one of the most prolific rock bands of all time, and continue to wow audiences of every generation. The following album lineup are what we consider to be essential to any U2 fan’s catalogue:
War (1983)
The group's third studio album, War, is often described as where the band really come into their own for the first time. The album holds a strong post punk feel throughout, with prominent, catchy bass lines weaving through the project and Bono's vocals possessing an experimental energy.
The Joshua Tree (1987)
Throughout this album, you can really feel that the band were going through a transitional period, curating a more intense, powerful and ballad- driven sound. It’s said that the band drew inspiration from the vast landscapes they explored on tour in America, as well as including themes of complex social and political conversations facing the country. Produced by legends Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, this has got to be one of the band’s most stand out releases.
Rattle and Hum (1988)
Rattle and Hum is known as one of U2’s biggest genre adaptation across their careers, with lots of exploration into American Roots Music majorly impacting the sound. Bono revealed in an interview with Rolling Stone that, “Dylan was responsible for Rattle and Hum because he’s the one who said that you have to understand the past, where the music comes from. He was talking to me about the McPeake family and The Clancy Brothers and then Hank Williams and Leadbelly, none of whom I knew”.
Achtung Baby (1991)
U2’s 7th studio album Achtung Baby was first born in Berlin, but following from the success of Rattle and Hum, the band were left feeling pressured to release something unique, resulting in conflicts within the group. Upon finishing the global anthem ‘One’, they returned to Dublin to finish the album. Achtung Baby shot to Number 1 on the US Billboard 200, and is credited as a fan favourite.
All That You Can’t Leave Behind (2000)
At the turn of the millennium, U2 emerged from the 90s, where they were by majority labelled as a pop rock band, and now felt it time to prove their more varied ability. This album re- established their reputation as a rock band, featuring catchy melodies and dynamically huge guitars, including hits such as ‘Beautiful’ and ‘Stuck In A Moment You Can’t Get Out Of.’