What makes Lemon by U2 notable?

The single was significant for its embrace of the dance-rock genre, contributing to the band's evolving identity in the early 90s. It received notable attention on the charts, reaching high positions in several countries and showcasing U2's willingness to innovate within their established sound. Released in 1993, 'Lemon' came during U2's transition from their earlier rock sound to a more electronic and experimental approach. This period followed their commercially successful album 'Achtung Baby' and marked a time when they were exploring new musical territories, influenced by the burgeoning dance music scene.

How many songs are on Lemon?

Lemon has 4 tracks, running approximately 23 minutes.

Lemon

U2 · 1993

23 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of dance beats and atmospheric rock that captures the essence of early 90s club culture.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Lemon (edit) — This edit encapsulates the album's blend of catchy hooks and electronic elements, making it a radio-friendly representation of U2's experimentation during this era.
→
Lemon (Oakenfold Jeep mix) — This remix highlights the influence of prominent DJ Paul Oakenfold, bridging rock with electronic dance music and exemplifying U2's adaptability to club culture.
→
Lemon — 'Lemon' showcases the band's shift towards a more introspective lyrical style, combining rich imagery with an infectious rhythm that draws listeners into its world.

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 single blends rock and electronic elements but lacks strong cohesion due to multiple versions.

What we noticed

The original version features a slow build-up with layered synths and a prominent bassline that drives the rhythm.
The Oakenfold Jeep mix emphasizes a dance beat, transforming the song into a club-ready anthem while maintaining the atmospheric elements.

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 3/10

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 — Represents U2's shift to electronic and dance influences in the early 90s.
Themes: dance-floor introspection· early '90s experimentation· electronic rock fusion
Career context: Released in 1993, 'Lemon' came during U2's transition from their earlier rock sound to a more electronic and experimental approach. This period followed their commercially successful album 'Achtung Baby' and marked a time when they were exploring new musical territories, influenced by the burgeoning dance music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers