Description
U2 – All That You Can’t Leave Behind – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Record
Released on October 30, 2000, All That You Can’t Leave Behind marked a triumphant return for U2, bringing them back to their anthemic rock roots after the electronic and experimental detours of the ’90s era (Achtung Baby, Zooropa, Pop). The album was seen as a return to form, blending the classic U2 sound with modern production, and it helped re-establish the band as one of the biggest rock acts in the world heading into the new millennium.
Produced by longtime collaborators Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, the album was recorded in the wake of the more divisive reception of Pop (1997). With All That You Can’t Leave Behind, U2 stripped away the electronic experimentation in favor of heartfelt lyrics, soaring melodies, and anthemic choruses, resulting in one of their most universally praised albums.
The album was a massive commercial and critical success, winning seven Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year twice (Beautiful Day and Walk On), and selling over 12 million copies worldwide.
All That You Can’t Leave Behind blends classic U2 elements—The Edge’s chiming delay-heavy guitar, Bono’s soaring vocals, and a rhythm section that’s both driving and melodic—with a more refined, radio-friendly rock sound. The album doesn’t aim for grand reinvention but instead perfects what U2 does best: emotionally charged, stadium-ready rock anthems.
Lyrically, the album carries themes of resilience, renewal, hope, and personal reflection, with many songs inspired by love, loss, and the desire for redemption. The album’s uplifting tone was amplified following the 9/11 attacks, as many of its songs, particularly Walk On, became anthems of perseverance and healing.
Notable Tracks & Highlights
Beautiful Day – The album’s lead single and one of U2’s most iconic songs, this uplifting anthem about appreciating life’s simple joys became a global hit. With its soaring chorus, anthemic instrumentation, and Bono’s impassioned vocals, it won three Grammys, including Record of the Year.
Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of – A soulful, gospel-influenced ballad written as a tribute to Michael Hutchence, the late INXS frontman. The song’s lyrics address suicidal thoughts and regret, wrapped in a melody that feels comforting and hopeful.
Elevation – A high-energy, guitar-driven stadium rock anthem, featuring one of The Edge’s most distinct, fuzzed-out riffs. The song became a live staple and gained additional popularity after being featured in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001).
Walk On – Written as a tribute to Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese pro-democracy leader, this track became a global anthem of perseverance and hope. Following the 9/11 attacks, it took on new meaning, resonating with audiences who found solace in its lyrics about resilience. It won the Grammy for Record of the Year in 2002.
Kite – One of the album’s most emotional moments, this song was inspired by Bono’s relationship with his dying father. Its melancholic yet soaring melody makes it one of U2’s most touching ballads.
In a Little While – A soulful, bluesy track that Bono later revealed was the last song Joey Ramone listened to before passing away, giving it a legendary status in rock history.
When I Look at the World – A deeply introspective song exploring themes of faith and doubt, featuring The Edge’s shimmering guitar work.
Peace on Earth – A somber reflection on global conflicts, directly referencing the Omagh bombing in Northern Ireland. Its mournful tone contrasts with the more uplifting songs on the album.
New York – A darker, brooding track that paints a vivid portrait of the city, capturing its chaotic energy and post-9/11 significance.
Grace – A delicate, ethereal closer that offers a meditative reflection on kindness and redemption.
All That You Can’t Leave Behind was a massive commercial success, debuting at No. 1 in 32 countries and selling over 12 million copies worldwide. It brought U2 back into mainstream rock dominance, proving that the band could adapt without losing their core identity.
The album’s themes of hope, resilience, and love resonated deeply with fans, particularly after the events of 9/11, when songs like Walk On and Beautiful Day became anthems of survival and healing. U2 even performed Walk On at the Super Bowl XXXVI halftime show in 2002, during which they honored the victims of the attacks.
Critically, the album received widespread praise, with many reviewers hailing it as one of U2’s strongest works. It won seven Grammy Awards, including two for Record of the Year, and remains one of their most beloved 21st-century albums.
All That You Can’t Leave Behind is a classic U2 album, blending their signature sound with modern production and deeply human themes. It stands as a testament to the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots, delivering anthems that feel both personal and universal.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Beautiful Day
Stuck In A Moment You Can’t Get Out Of
Elevation
Walk On
Kite
In A Little While
Wild Honey
Peace On Earth
When I Look At The World
New York
Grace
