What makes Get On Your Boots by U2 notable?

Get On Your Boots debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its ambition but others finding it lacking in depth compared to earlier works. The single became emblematic of U2's continued evolution, showcasing their ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape. When U2 released Get On Your Boots in January 2009, they were riding the wave of their previous album, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, which had brought them significant commercial success and critical acclaim. This album marked a transition in their sound as they began to explore more experimental elements that would culminate in their next project, No Line on the Horizon.

How many songs are on Get On Your Boots?

Get On Your Boots has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Get On Your Boots

U2 · 2009

7 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

An energetic mix of anthemic rock and danceable rhythms, radiating urgency and optimism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Get On Your Boots — This title track encapsulates the album's spirit with its infectious energy and compelling call to action, setting a tone of social consciousness.
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No Line on the Horizon 2 — A sonically expansive track that highlights the band's experimentation with soundscapes while maintaining their signature lyrical introspection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The single showcases energetic songwriting but lacks the depth of U2's earlier works.

What we noticed

The second track introduces a more atmospheric sound with extended instrumental sections, contrasting the first's energy.

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: 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: Deep Cut — A solid single that doesn't fit a primary role in U2's discography.
Themes: political activism· celebratory defiance· expansive soundscapes
Career context: When U2 released Get On Your Boots in January 2009, they were riding the wave of their previous album, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, which had brought them significant commercial success and critical acclaim. This album marked a transition in their sound as they began to explore more experimental elements that would culminate in their next project, No Line on the Horizon.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers