What makes War by Steve Wickham notable?

The album was critically acclaimed, peaking at number 1 in several countries and establishing U2 as a significant force in rock music. Tracks like 'Sunday Bloody Sunday' became anthems for peace movements and helped the band gain recognition for their socially aware lyrics during a time of political unrest in Ireland. Released on February 28, 1983, 'War' was U2's third studio album, following their breakthrough record 'October'. At this point in their career, U2 was solidifying their identity as politically conscious rock musicians, navigating themes of conflict and human rights while garnering international attention.

War works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, short, impactful listening sessions and introspective late-night vibes.

How many songs are on War?

War has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

War

Steve Wickham · 1983

42 min · 10 tracks

Raw anthems of conflict intertwine with poignant melodies, reflecting the turmoil of a divided Ireland.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Sunday Bloody Sunday — This track stands out for its hauntingly powerful drum intro and its direct commentary on the violence of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. It's both a protest song and a rallying cry for peace.
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New Year’s Day — With its captivating melody and lyrics about hope amidst strife, this song showcases U2's ability to blend personal emotion with political commentary. It became one of their signature songs.
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Two Hearts Beat as One — This track combines upbeat rhythms with a message about unity and connection, contrasting against the backdrop of division depicted in other songs on the album. Its infectious energy makes it memorable.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

72 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album effectively combines anthemic rock with poignant melodies, reflecting its themes of conflict and resolution.

What we noticed

The album opens with a martial drumbeat on 'Sunday Bloody Sunday', immediately establishing a tone of urgency and conflict.
Tracks like 'New Year’s Day' feature prominent piano lines that intertwine with the guitar, creating a rich melodic texture.
Several songs, including 'Drowning Man' and 'Surrender', utilize dynamic shifts between quiet verses and explosive choruses to enhance emotional impact.
The final track, '40', features a repetitive lyrical refrain that gradually fades out, leaving a lingering sense of reflection.

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

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

dynamic emotional journeys
short, impactful listening sessions
introspective late-night vibes
political and social reflections

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on February 28, 1983, 'War' was U2's third studio album, following their breakthrough record 'October'. At this point in their career, U2 was solidifying their identity as politically conscious rock musicians, navigating themes of conflict and human rights while garnering international attention.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Sunday Bloody Sunday 4:40
2 Seconds 3:10
3 New Year’s Day 5:35
4 Like a Song… 4:46
5 Drowning Man 4:14
6 The Refugee 3:40
7 Two Hearts Beat as One 4:03
8 Red Light 3:46
9 Surrender 5:34
10 “40” 2:35

What to play next

Full Steve Wickham discography Artists like Steve Wickham

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata