What makes Three by U2 notable?

The EP received favorable reviews and helped establish U2's presence in the burgeoning post-punk movement. It is notable for its energetic sound and lyrical depth, which would come to define their later work, and it was crucial in securing their first major record deal. Three marked U2's debut EP, released shortly after their formation in Dublin. This 1979 release came as the band was beginning to gain attention in the Irish music scene, setting the stage for their subsequent breakthrough with their first full-length album.

How many songs are on Three?

Three has 3 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Three

U2 · 1979

9 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

Raw post-punk energy combines with melodic hooks and anthemic choruses, showcasing U2's early songwriting prowess.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Out of Control — Opening with a driving beat and urgent vocals, this track encapsulates the band's youthful energy and themes of personal struggle and freedom.
→
Stories for Boys — With its catchy chorus and jangly guitars, this track highlights U2's knack for blending pop sensibilities with introspective lyrics about adolescence.
→
Boy‐Girl — This song displays a playful dynamic between gender perspectives, showcasing the band's early interest in exploring complex themes through accessible melodies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

47 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases U2's early songwriting and energy, establishing their sound within the post-punk movement.

What we noticed

The EP opens with a driving rhythm in 'Out of Control', featuring a prominent bass line and urgent vocals.
Each track maintains a raw, energetic sound, with guitar riffs that are both melodic and aggressive.
The lyrics across the three tracks explore themes of youth and identity, delivered with a sense of urgency.

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

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 — This EP helped establish U2's presence in the post-punk scene, marking their early recognition.
Themes: Irish music scene· raw post-punk energy
Career context: Three marked U2's debut EP, released shortly after their formation in Dublin. This 1979 release came as the band was beginning to gain attention in the Irish music scene, setting the stage for their subsequent breakthrough with their first full-length album.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers