U2 Surprise Release ‘Easter Lily’ EP Following ‘Days of Ash’

U2 has released a second surprise EP, titled Easter Lily, just weeks after the release of Days of Ash, signaling a new approach to releasing music as they continue work on a forthcoming studio album expected later in 2026. The six-track EP was released at 5am on Fine Friday, April 3, 2026.

A New Rhythm for a Veteran Band

The release of Easter Lily, following Days of Ash released on Ash Wednesday, suggests U2 is adopting a more flexible release schedule while completing their next full-length album according to RTÉ. With over 175 million records sold worldwide and 22 Grammy Awards, U2 remains one of Ireland’s most influential musical acts.

Themes of Loss, Friendship, and Renewal

Bono described the new EP as stemming from a more intimate place than Days of Ash, which responded to global chaos. Easter Lily explores personal themes of friendship, faith, endurance, and renewal, shaped by loss and memory, but also by tenderness, defiance, and hope as reported by RTÉ.

Track Listing and Notable Songs

The Easter Lily EP features the following tracks:

• “Song for Hal”
• “In A Life”
• “Scars”
• “Resurrection Song”
• “Easter Parade”
• “COEXIST (I Will Bless The Lord At All Times?)” (Soundscape by Brian Eno)

“Song for Hal” is a lament for Hal Willner, a longtime friend and influential music producer who passed away in 2020. The Edge provides lead vocals on this track, describing it as a product of lockdown-era grief and isolation . “In a Life” celebrates friendship, while “Scars” delves into self-acceptance and survival with a post-punk edge.

The Significance of ‘Easter Lily’

The EP’s title, Easter Lily, holds particular significance in Ireland, symbolizing remembrance of the 1916 Easter Rising and subsequent conflicts for independence according to u2songs.com. The flower is traditionally worn during Easter as a symbol of purity and remembrance.

Production and Accompanying Material

The EP is produced by Jacknife Lee and features a soundscape contribution from Brian Eno . The digital release is accompanied by the latest edition of the band’s e-zine, Propaganda, Volume 3, Issue 2, which includes track information and liner notes as noted by The Irish Times.