What makes Electrical Storm by U2 notable?

'Electrical Storm' reached number one on the Irish Singles Chart and garnered critical acclaim for its innovative production. The William Orbit mix received particular praise for its fresh take on the band's sound, influencing how mainstream rock bands approached dance music elements in subsequent years. By 2002, U2 was transitioning into a more electronic sound after the success of their album 'All That You Can't Leave Behind' in 2000. 'Electrical Storm' marks their continued evolution as they experiment with dance influences while still retaining their anthemic rock roots. This release came just before the band's major world tour, setting the stage for their resurgence in the early 2000s.

How many songs are on Electrical Storm?

Electrical Storm has 3 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

Released 24 years ago this October

Electrical Storm

U2 · 2002

15 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of atmospheric electronic beats and soaring vocals, creating a reflective yet danceable soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Electrical Storm (William Orbit mix) — This version showcases a striking blend of ambient textures and U2's signature melodic hooks, highlighting their shift towards a more electronic sound.
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New York (Nice mix) — The Nice mix of 'New York' amplifies the song's urban themes with a more club-oriented beat, reflecting U2's versatility in adapting their music for different contexts.
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New York (Nasty mix) — This mix takes a darker, edgier approach to the original track, illustrating U2's willingness to explore varied sounds and moods within their discography.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single showcases U2's shift towards electronic influences while maintaining their signature sound, though it lacks depth for repeated listens.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent electronic beat that drives the song, layered with atmospheric synths and U2's characteristic guitar work.
The two remixes of 'New York' present different interpretations, with the 'Nice mix' emphasizing a more melodic approach while the 'Nasty mix' leans into a heavier rhythm.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Marks U2's transition to a more electronic sound, showcasing their evolving style.
Themes: post-9/11 anxiety· neon-lit New York
Career context: By 2002, U2 was transitioning into a more electronic sound after the success of their album 'All That You Can't Leave Behind' in 2000. 'Electrical Storm' marks their continued evolution as they experiment with dance influences while still retaining their anthemic rock roots. This release came just before the band's major world tour, setting the stage for their resurgence in the early 2000s.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers