U2 Unveil New EP ‘Easter Lily’ on Good Friday
Following the release of their politically charged EP ‘Days Of Ash’ on Ash Wednesday, rock band U2 has introduced a new project titled ‘Easter Lily’. This latest release, available today on Good Friday, is described as a “separate, self-contained collection” featuring six new tracks. Among these is a unique soundscape created by Brian Eno, known for his innovative contributions to music.
Frontman Bono shared some reflections in a statement, posing deep and personal questions through the EP: “Are our own relationships up to these challenging times? How hard do you fight for friendship? Can our faith survive the mangling of meaning that those algorithms love to reward? Is all religion rubbish and still ripping us apart…? Or are there answers to find in its crevices? Are there ceremonies, rituals, dances that we might be missing in our lives?”
This new EP contrasts with the previous work, ‘Days Of Ash’, which featured “songs of defiance” dedicated to activists who lost their lives, including Renée Good and Awdah Hathaleen, a consultant on the documentary ‘No Other Land’. In contrast, ‘Easter Lily’ delves into more “personal, private and reflective” themes. It is considered a “much more reflective set of songs” compared to its predecessor, exploring themes of friendship, loss, hope, and ultimately, renewal.
Tracklist and Dedication
The EP’s opening track, ‘Song for Hal’, is a tribute to U2’s late friend and producer Hal Willner, who passed away in 2020 due to complications from COVID-19. Despite being more introspective, the new songs are not devoid of engagement. The closing track, ‘COEXIST (I Will Bless The Lord At All Times?)’, features a new soundscape by Brian Eno. The band wrote this track for the parents of children growing up in war zones, highlighting their continued commitment to social issues.
Digital Edition of Propaganda Zine
Like ‘Days Of Ash’, ‘Easter Lily’ comes with another digital edition of the band’s long-running Propaganda zine, which they have been publishing since 1986. This edition includes lyrics, articles, photos, and contributions from the four band members and collaborators. Readers can explore the latest issue online.
Upcoming Projects
Both of the band’s 2026 EPs are leading up to a still-untitled new album from U2. Their most recent full-length album, ‘Songs of Surrender’, was released in 2023. The upcoming record is expected to come out in late 2026, continuing the band’s legacy of impactful and thought-provoking music.
