On February 18, 2026, Ash Wednesday, Irish band U2 released
a new EP, “Days of Ash.” The album consists of five new songs and a poem that
discuss the current events of the world. It is being released ahead of an album
they are releasing later this year. These songs have a more serious tone and
message than the later release.
Four of the five songs on the album are about people,
particularly those on the frontlines of the fight for freedom. The people
discussed in the album include a mom, a father, and a daughter whose lives were
cut short, as well as a soldier.
U2 has been writing powerful songs about moments in history throughout their career. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” was written about an unarmed civil rights protest on January 30, 1972, where 14 people were killed, and several others were injured. The song was the first song on their album entitled “War.”
This album maintains the classic U2 voice and sound while
creating a more urgent look at things going on around the world. The mixing is
excellent, which fans have come to expect from the band. There are profound
stories and messages behind each of the song, and the band does a great job of
executing these tastefully.
While some of the songs talk about what is going on in
certain parts of the wars, primarily Ukraine and the United States, these songs
will resonate for generations to come. For example, “American Obituary” talks
about the shooting of Renee Good. The cry of America rising against the lies
will relate to everyone, regardless of political persuasion or geographic
location.
“Yours Eternally” features Ed Sheeran and Taras Topolia, who
is a Ukrainian singer. The song is hopeful, despite everything that is going on
in the world. No matter how much negativity seems prevalent, we can work
together to make a world of freedom. We will make it through together if we
keep fighting the good fight.
Although the album is short, the songs are substantial enough
that the album is satisfying to listeners. It leaves listeners feeling complete
after listening to it. While musicians want listeners to crave more, sometimes
it is more important that an album is complete.
This album is perfect for those who love U2, especially their songs like “Sunday Bloody Sunday.” The songs on the album have messages about current events without getting overly political. This may upset some listeners, but the album as a whole is powerful, inspiring listeners to take a stance towards justice.
Track List
1. American Obituary
2. The Tears Of Things
3. Song Of The Future
4. Wildpeace
5. One Life At A Time
6. Yours Eternally (ft. Ed Sheeran & Taras Topolia)
Related Articles
-Beyond the Song: "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/05/beyond-song-sunday-bloody-sunday-u2..html
-Dropkick Murphys Release Anti-I.C.E. Song: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2026/01/dropkick-murphys-release-anti-ice-song.html
-Mothers Against Genocide Release "A Mother's Heart for Palestine": https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/08/mothers-against-genocide-release-mothers-heart-for-palestine.html