It was released as the lead single from their fourth studio album, Sleeping with Ghosts (2003), on 10 March 2003.

Reviewing Sleeping with Ghosts, BBC.co.uk's rock/indie reviewer Dan Tallis described "The Bitter End" as "a good pop tune",[1] having "just the right amount of dark, gothic atmosphere to please their fans and enough radio friendly guitars to please the new generation of indie kids.

"[2] Rock Sound reasoned that the track's "kick ass romp"[3] reinforces "their status as purveyors of pure indie pop in the vein of The Smiths.

"[3] However, NME saw differing influences woven in the track, reporting that "The Bitter End" "sees Placebo powering along with a relentless U2- chasing-after-The Cure melody that's as infectious as 24.

7-inch vinyl "The Bitter End" was released on 10 March 2003 via Elevator Music/Hut Records,[6] the first single to be culled from Sleeping with Ghosts.