What makes Sweetest Thing by U2 notable?

'Sweetest Thing' peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking U2's return to mainstream success after some experimentation. The single also exemplified the band's ability to craft catchy pop-rock melodies while maintaining their alternative roots, earning positive reviews from critics and solidifying their place in the late '90s music scene. By the time 'Sweetest Thing' was released in October 1998, U2 was in a transitional phase, following the commercial successes of 'Achtung Baby' and 'Zooropa'. This album served as a compilation of B-sides and rarities, reflecting on their evolution during the 1990s and offering fans a taste of their energetic live performances.

How many songs are on Sweetest Thing?

Sweetest Thing has 3 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Released 28 years ago this October

Sweetest Thing

U2 · 1998

14 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A buoyant blend of rock and pop that captures U2's melodic sensibility while showcasing their energetic live performance spirit.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Sweetest Thing (the single mix) — This track is a reworked version of an earlier B-side that showcases U2's knack for infectious choruses and polished production, making it a staple in their catalog.
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Twilight (live from Red Rocks) — This live rendition captures the raw energy of U2's iconic performance style, highlighting the band's connection with their audience during one of their most celebrated concerts.
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An Cat Dubh / Into the Heart (live from Red Rocks) — The medley illustrates the band's early post-punk roots while showcasing Bono's compelling stage presence and lyrical depth, making it a significant moment in U2's live repertoire.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The single shines with strong melodies but lacks cohesion due to its mix of studio and live tracks.

What we noticed

The live tracks showcase U2's performance energy, with extended instrumental sections that emphasize the band's improvisational skills.
The single mix of 'Sweetest Thing' is polished and radio-friendly, while the live tracks capture a rawer, more spontaneous sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

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: Breakthrough — Marked U2's return to mainstream success after a period of experimentation.
Themes: fame's complexities· 90s pop-rock transition· live concert energy
Career context: By the time 'Sweetest Thing' was released in October 1998, U2 was in a transitional phase, following the commercial successes of 'Achtung Baby' and 'Zooropa'. This album served as a compilation of B-sides and rarities, reflecting on their evolution during the 1990s and offering fans a taste of their energetic live performances.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers