What does Elevation sound like?

A vibrant fusion of dance-rock and alternative anthems that captures the exuberance of early 2000s U2. Rooted in alternative rock and pop rock. Start with "Elevation (Tomb Raider mix)".

Is Elevation a good place to start with U2?

Yes, Elevation is recommended as a starting point for new U2 listeners. A vibrant fusion of dance-rock and alternative anthems that captures the exuberance of early 2000s U2. Released on June 25, 2001, Elevation came during U2's artistic resurgence following the commercial success of their album All That You Can't Leave Behind. This EP features live recordings from a pivotal moment in their career, showcasing their ability to revitalize classic tracks while experimenting with new sounds. The project also highlights U2's increasing engagement with the digital era, particularly through remixes and live performances.

Who is Elevation for?

Elevation works well if you're into short energetic listening bursts, dance-friendly tracks for gatherings and uplifting vibes for early mornings.

How many songs are on Elevation?

Elevation has 5 tracks, running approximately 19 minutes.

Elevation

U2 · 2001

19 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of dance-rock and alternative anthems that captures the exuberance of early 2000s U2.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Elevation (Tomb Raider mix) Start here — This version of Elevation combines driving beats with soaring vocals, making it emblematic of U2's transition into dance-rock while connecting to the mainstream through its film association.
→
I Remember You (live from Irving Plaza) — This brief yet poignant live performance showcases Bono's introspective lyrics and vocal delivery, highlighting the band's ability to create emotional depth even in short formats.
→
New York (live from Irving Plaza) — As a live rendition, this track captures U2's dynamic stage presence and the song's thematic exploration of urban life, offering a powerful connection with audiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases a mix of studio and live tracks, highlighting U2's energetic sound during a pivotal time.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent electronic beat that drives the song, contrasting with the more traditional instrumentation in the live tracks.
The live recordings capture a raw energy, with audience interaction and improvisation evident in the performances of 'I Remember You' and 'New York'.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short energetic listening bursts
dance-friendly tracks for gatherings
uplifting vibes for early mornings
introspective moments amid energy

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, sprawling albums
seek deep, contemplative experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Revitalized U2's relevance and established their early 2000s presence.
Themes: New York streets· dance-rock energy· personal awakening
Career context: Released on June 25, 2001, Elevation came during U2's artistic resurgence following the commercial success of their album All That You Can't Leave Behind. This EP features live recordings from a pivotal moment in their career, showcasing their ability to revitalize classic tracks while experimenting with new sounds. The project also highlights U2's increasing engagement with the digital era, particularly through remixes and live performances.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers

New to U2? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Elevation (Tomb Raider mix)

The chorus escalates as it shifts from personal reflection to a collective experience of liberation.

This shift emphasizes a sense of unity and exhilaration, mirroring the euphoric themes prevalent throughout the EP.