U2 Releases 'Days of Ash' EP, First Original Material in Over a Decade

U2 has surprised fans with the release of their new EP, Days of Ash, on February 18, 2026. This six-track collection marks the band’s first release of original songs since their 2017 album, Songs of Experience, and the first since 2023’s Songs of Surrender, which featured re-recorded versions of older material. The EP, produced by Jacknife Lee, addresses themes of protest and lamentation, focusing on the deaths of Renée Good, Sarina Esmailzadeh, and Awdah Hathaleen.

A Response to Global Events

Days of Ash is a direct response to recent global tragedies. Bono, U2’s lead vocalist, described the tracks as “songs of defiance and dismay, of lamentation,” explaining that they were too urgent to delay. The EP’s songs specifically address the killings of Minneapolis woman Renée Good, Iranian teenager Sarina Esmailzadeh, and Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen, reflecting the band’s continued engagement with social and political issues.

Creative Accompaniments

The release of Days of Ash was accompanied by several creative elements. A lyric video was created for each of the six tracks, providing visual accompaniment to the EP’s powerful messages. A special edition of U2’s official magazine, Propaganda, was released alongside the EP. The 52-page digital magazine features interview material with band members and describes Days of Ash as “six postcards from the present… Wish we weren.t here.”

Looking Ahead

While Days of Ash tackles weighty themes, Bono has indicated that the band’s upcoming studio album, planned for release later in 2026, will explore different musical and thematic territory. Drummer Larry Mullen Jr. Emphasized the band’s willingness to capture a stand, acknowledging the potential for “blowback” but affirming it as a core part of their identity. Guitarist The Edge reiterated U2’s belief in a world where borders are not forcibly erased.

Key Takeaways

• U2 released the Days of Ash EP on February 18, 2026.
• The EP is the band’s first collection of original songs since 2017.
• The songs address the deaths of Renée Good, Sarina Esmailzadeh, and Awdah Hathaleen.
• The release was accompanied by lyric videos and a special edition of Propaganda magazine.
• A new studio album is planned for later in 2026.