U2 announces new album ‘Songs of Experience’ and drops an uplifting, enjoyable second single, “Get Out of Your Own Way.”

U2 is set to return officially December 1, 2017.  That’s when their new album, Songs of Experience arrives.  The last time we heard from U2, they released Songs of Innocence…for free. It was weird.  Safe to say, the rollout didn’t please people, and critics were mixed.  So far, Songs of Experience seems like it’ll be okay, judging by singles “You’re the Best Thing About Me” and “Get Out of Your Own Way.”

“Get Out of Your Own Way” opens with ethereal-sounding, mysterious sounds – typical of U2.Acoustic guitars accompany the titular lyric, which ends up being the chorus (more on that later).  Once we get into the meat of the production, there’s an appealing driving groove that appears during the first verse. Bono offers clear vocals on the verses. Arguably, on the second verse, he grows more confident. The chorus is simple, catchy, and uplifting. Furthermore, it has pop sensibilities. This is the crowning achievement of “Get Out of Your Own Way.”

“Get out of your own way, oh, I / Get out of your own way, oh, I / I could sing it to you all night, all night / If I could, I’d make it alright, alright / Nothing’s stopping you except what’s inside / I can help you, but it’s your fight, your fight.”

Background vocals help amplify the chorus.

Kendrick Lamar provides the outro, which is a fine addition following the uplifting chorus. This makes perfect sense – U2 appeared on Lamar’s DAMN. album earlier in 2017.

“Blessed are the arrogant / For there is the kingdom of their own company / Blessed are the superstars / For the magnificence in their light / We understand better our own insignificance / Blessed are the filthy rich / For you can only truly own what you give away / Like your pain.”

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Get Out of Your Own Way” is a pleasant, well-rounded, pop-oriented rock single. This isn’t game changing, but quite appealing and thoughtful.  U2 excels at songs like this one, which makes “Get Out of Your Own Way” a success.

U2 • Songs of Experience • Interscope • Release: 12.1.17

Photo Credit: Interscope