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U2 has unexpectedly released a politically charged EP titled “Days Of Ash,” marking a return to their activist roots while addressing global conflicts through music. The six-track collection, released via Island Records, tackles themes of violence, oppression, and resilience in today’s turbulent world.
The legendary rock band dedicates the EP to “those fighting on the frontlines of freedom,” with each track telling stories of individuals affected by political violence and oppression. Four of the songs focus on people whose lives were cut short due to conflict, including a mother, father, teenage girl, and a soldier forced to abandon creative pursuits to defend his country.
The opening track, “American Obituary,” references the January 7 killing of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minnesota. This is followed by “The Tears Of Things,” which explores living compassionately during violent times through the lens of Jewish prophetic tradition, while metaphorically imagining a conversation between Michelangelo’s David and its creator.
“Song of the Future” honors 16-year-old Sarina Esmailzadeh, who participated in Iran’s Woman, Life, Freedom movement in 2022 following the death of Jina Mahsa Amini. Esmailzadeh was detained by Iranian security forces and died from her injuries, becoming one of many symbols of resistance against oppressive regimes.
The EP also includes a reading of “Wildpeace,” a poem by Israeli author Yehuda Amichai, and “One Life At A Time,” dedicated to Palestinian teacher Awdah Hathaleen, who was killed by an Israeli settler in the West Bank last year.
The collection concludes with “Yours Eternally,” a collaboration with Ed Sheeran and Ukrainian musician-turned-soldier Taras Topolia. Written as a letter from a soldier on active duty, the song will be accompanied by a documentary film directed by Ukrainian filmmaker Ilya Mikhaylus, set to release on February 24—marking four years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“It’s been a thrill having the four of us back together in the studio over the last year,” Bono said in a statement. “The songs on ‘Days of Ash’ are very different in mood and theme to the ones we’re going to put on our album later in the year. These EP tracks couldn’t wait; these songs were impatient to be out in the world. They are songs of defiance and dismay, of lamentation.”
The frontman also revealed that a full album of new material is planned for release in 2026, promising that “songs of celebration will follow.” He emphasized that the EP responds to “the awfulness we see normalized daily on our small screens,” adding that “there’s nothing normal about these mad and maddening times.”
Drummer Larry Mullen Jr. noted that the band’s political stance has been integral to their identity since their formation. “We’ve never shied away from taking a position and sometimes that can get a bit messy, there’s always some sort of blowback, but it’s a big side of who we are and why we still exist,” he explained.
Guitarist The Edge added: “We believe in a world where borders are not erased by force. Where culture, language, and memory are not silenced by fear. Where the dignity of a people is not negotiable.”
Coinciding with the EP release, U2 announced the revival of their fanzine “Propaganda” for a special one-off edition. First published in February 1986 and inspired by punk-era DIY culture, the new 52-page issue will be available in both print and digital formats. It features a Q&A with Bono, notes from his bandmates, exclusive interviews with Ilya Mikhaylus and film producer Pyotr Verzilov, among other content.
The EP’s release comes after Bono’s recent public statements on global conflicts, including an op-ed in The Atlantic about achieving freedom “in every part of the world where health and humanity are at risk.” The singer has also spoken out about the Israel-Palestine crisis, criticizing Benjamin Netanyahu’s actions and calling for the release of Palestinian prisoner Marwan Barghouti.
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12 Comments
The themes of this new EP from U2 sound timely and relevant given the turbulent state of global affairs. I’m curious to hear how the band approaches these heavy topics through their music.
Dedicating the EP to those fighting for freedom is a meaningful gesture. U2 has a history of using their platform to amplify important social and political causes.
Honoring individuals affected by political violence and oppression through music is a meaningful tribute. I appreciate U2 using their platform to amplify these important stories.
The track titles and descriptions indicate a thoughtful, nuanced approach to complex issues. I’m intrigued to hear how U2 handles these sensitive topics through their songwriting.
I’m always interested to see how musicians and artists respond to current events and issues through their work. This new politically charged EP from U2 seems like an intriguing creative expression.
While music can be a powerful tool for activism and social commentary, I hope U2 strikes a balance between their message and the artistic quality of the songs.
Powerful music can be an effective way to bring attention to important social and political issues. I’m curious to learn more about the themes and stories explored in this new EP from U2.
U2 has always been known for using their platform to address global conflicts and support those fighting for freedom. This new EP seems in line with their activist roots.
Exploring themes of violence, oppression, and resilience through the lens of personal stories is a compelling approach. I’m curious to hear how U2 brings these powerful narratives to life in their music.
The track titles and descriptions suggest U2 is aiming to create a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant listening experience with this new EP. I look forward to hearing it.
While music can be a powerful medium for political expression, I hope U2 avoids heavy-handed moralizing and instead focuses on authentically sharing the human stories behind these conflicts.
It’s admirable that U2 is using their platform to raise awareness of injustice and oppression around the world. Giving voice to those affected is an important role for artists.