Pop is not bad at all

I remember back in 1997 when I bought this album, many critics dismissed this album as bad, but in truth, this album has much to offer... I bought the album anyway despite all the critics.
U2 did not get lost in superficiality, but it the lack of time. This, I agree, is not one of their greatest, but it is not a piece of crap either. And what proved all of this was that all the Popmart Tour progressed, the band brought out this album's magic in the stadium, and continuously releasing of songs played during that tour just prove that U2 themselves probably think this album got better and better as they played it more.
One of the strong points of this album is the complete contrast that it gives to their other albums. This album shows just to what extent U2 can master music and change. Those who do not like change are disappointed by this album, and frankly, they should not venture in u2 fandom. U2 is all about change and not repeating themselves.
This album shows off Bono's voice, and it is what I like most about this album.
Another thing about this album is that it's fun. "Discotheque", "Miami" and "The Playboy Mansion" are proof of that, but it might have some fans looking for more deep lyrics.
"Please", "Gone", "If God Would Send his Angels", "Staring at the Sun" are what would satisfy them. "Gone" along with the album's closing track "Wake Up Dead Man" are truly
great lyrically and sonically.
I am one of those fans of U2 that likes every single album, but with reason. I love how they change, how their evolution challenges their fans. I love Pop because I think this is the album that complemented the musical journey that they take us in. It pinned down something that I think where missing in U2's music before this album: pop songs, songs in which you can say music is not supposed to be serious all the time. And that's the great lesson you
learn from this album.
Initially, yes, this album will not complete win you over, but as I always say, don't throw it back into the void of forgetfulness. Listen to it, and you will find something you like.