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U2 Releases Six-Track EP 'Days of Ash' Addressing Global Conflicts

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U2 Unveils "Days of Ash" EP: A Collection of Defiance and Dismay

U2 has released "Days of Ash," a new six-track EP that marks the band's first collection of new studio music since 2017's "Songs of Experience." The EP, released on Ash Wednesday, focuses on various global deaths, conflicts, and political issues, with frontman Bono describing the tracks as "songs of defiance and dismay, of lamentation."

EP Overview

"Days of Ash" comprises six songs addressing contemporary international events and humanitarian concerns. Bass guitarist Adam Clayton noted that the songs "felt like they were arriving at the right time" for release. The themes explored range from specific incidents of violence and protest movements to broader calls for social justice.

Featured Tracks and Themes

The EP includes several tracks dedicated to specific global events and figures:

  • "American Obituary": This song addresses federal immigration raids and references the death of Minneapolis protester Renee Good on January 7. Source 1 states she was killed by ICE agents while protesting. Bono described Good as "a woman committed to nonviolent civil disobedience" and criticized Kristi Noem, head of the US Department of Homeland Security, for labeling her a domestic terrorist. He called for an independent inquiry into her death.

    Source 2 includes lyrics from the song, such as "Renee Good, born to die free. American mother of three. Seventh day, January. A bullet for each child, you see," and mentions Good's reported final words, "I am not mad at you, Lord."

  • "Song of the Future": This track centers on the Women, Life, Freedom protest movement in Iran. It mentions Sarina Esmailzadeh, who died in September 2022 after allegedly being beaten by Iranian security forces. Bono characterized Iran's ruling class as using subjective interpretations of sacred texts as a means of control.

  • "One Life at a Time": This song refers to Awdah Hathaleen, a Palestinian activist killed in the West Bank in July 2025 by an Israeli settler. Bono called the killing "heinous."

  • "The Tears of Things": Inspired by a book by Richard Rohr, this song features lyrics imagining a conversation between Michelangelo’s David and its sculptor.

  • "Wildpeace": This track features a recitation of the poem "Wildpeace" by Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai, performed by Nigerian musician Adeola and set to U2's music.

Band Commentary and Stance

Throughout the EP's release, U2 members have reiterated their long-standing commitment to activism and engagement with political and social issues.

  • Bono's Statements: He emphasized the moral force of Judaism and called for countering antisemitism and Islamophobia.

    Bono stated that the "rape, murder and abduction of Israelis on 7 October was evil, but self-defence is no defence for the sweeping brutality of Netanyahu’s response."
    He also noted the conflict in Sudan and criticized the Trump administration's reduction of US foreign aid. Furthermore, he outlined his vision for a "radical centre" in politics, expressing concern about both the far right and far left and advocating for a middle ground.

  • The Edge: The guitarist articulated the band's belief in a world where "borders are not erased by force" and "the dignity of a people is not negotiable."

  • Larry Mullen Jr.: The drummer, returning after neck surgery, affirmed the band's history of taking positions on political and social issues, citing songs such as "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and "New Year's Day."

Collaborations and Upcoming Releases

  • "Yours Eternally": The closing track features guest performances by British pop singer Ed Sheeran and Ukrainian musician-soldier Taras Topolia, who has been engaged in fighting against Russian forces. The song is presented as a letter from a soldier involved in the conflict with Russia.

  • Documentary: A short documentary accompanying "Yours Eternally," directed by Ukrainian film-maker Ilya Mikhaylus, is scheduled for release on February 24. This date will mark the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Future Plans

U2 has confirmed that a separate full-length album with a "carnival vibe" and a "defiantly joyful feel" is planned for release later in the year. This upcoming album will be distinct from the thematic content of "Days of Ash."