I will start with a disclaimer: u2, in my opinion, are the best band in existence.
I have listened to a lot of music (from Nirvana to the Beatles, from Queen to Oasis, from Iron Maiden to Dream Theater, from Led Zeppelin to the Who, and so on) and I believe that the mix of artistic genius, Edge's inimitable style, and Bono's voice of the century is the best the human ear could ever desire.
Sure, the world is beautiful because it's diverse, and therefore many will call me crazy.
Having said this, around here we have always considered this album a masterpiece, then, one fine day, I go on the internet and read about "backstreetboy-like ballads," deadly moans, and a finished career.
In my opinion, an album with 5 songs like "Beautiful Day," "Stuck in a Moment," "Elevation," "Walk On," and "Kite" deserves a place among the best albums of the last 20 years.
Sure, the rest of the album flows along smoothly except for the positive notes of "In a Little While" and "When I Look at the World," since more could not be asked. I conclude by challenging the usual critics that I find at the end of every review on this site to find a better band than u2...
The problem with this record is that it has nothing new. It feels too worn.
Then the production didn’t convince me; the final work wouldn’t make you think of such important names (Brian Eno first + Daniel Lanois).
"An album that goes fast and smooth in some moments and disappoints in others."
"'Beautiful Day' can play well and long on the radio but it will never be destined to remain a historic piece of the band."
I cannot justify 'All That You Can't Leave Behind.' It is their blandest, and most constructed album, made to please everyone without disturbing anyone.
The smell of mediocrity is too evident in at least 5 songs... Too little for an album they worked on for three years.
Within the simplicity of the final product, empathy emerges, the joy of savoring every little thing, and every single moment life offers, always moving forward.
All That You Can’t Leave Behind is a simple and sincere album, light years away from the sadness and desolation described in 'Pop.'