On April 3, 2026, Irish band U2 released their second surprise album of the year, called “Easter Lily.” This surprise release follows “Days of Ash,” which was released on Ash Wednesday. The digital EP is accompanied by Volume 3, Issue 2 of “Propaganda” magazine. The tracks on the album were mastered by Scott Sedillo at Bernie Grundman Mastering.
The songs on the album have ties to Easter with song titles
like “Easter Parade” and “Resurrection Song.” There are six tracks on the album, five of
which are typical songs and the sixth is described as a soundscape.
The Easter Lily is worn around Easter to symbolize the
remembrance and purity of Christ. However, it is also worn in Ireland to
symbolize the Easter Rising of 1916 and to honor those who bravely sacrificed
their lives for the cause of Irish freedom.
U2 fans and listeners may remember the “Days of Ash” album
the band released for Ash Wednesday. In comparison, “Easter Lily” is a less pointed
and political album. However, the Easter Lily still has some political symbolism
behind it.
U2 is set to release a new album later this year, and neither
surprise album is delaying its release. None of the songs on the surprise
releases will be on the future album.
While the songs on “Days of Ash” are about current events,
the songs on “Easter Lily” take a more reflective look at things. They question
personal relationships and the meaning of certain rituals in our lives.
The mixing on this album is fairly well done. There are a few
moments where it gets a bit muddy, but in comparison to other artists, it is
not as bad and it does not detract from the enjoyment of the album. On “COEXIST
(I Will Bless The Lord At All Times?)," it is obvious that some of the
vocals are autotuned or edited, but since this song is the “soundscape,” it is
forgivable.
“Song for Hal” is about American producer and long-time U2
collaborator Hal Willner. Willner died in 2020 due to complications with
COVID-19. He would have turned 70 on April 6, 2026, and this song beautifully
honors his life.
“COEXIST (I Will Bless the Lord at all Times)” references
two sources. “I Will Bless The Lord At All Times” is the opening to Psalm 34,
while “COEXIST” is a campaign and logo calling for understanding across religious
beliefs. Bono wore this logo as a part of the band’s “Vertigo” tour.
Overall, this album is perfect for U2 fans who may not have
been a fan of the band’s more political “Days of Ash” album. These songs hit
closer to home while still reflecting on things going on in the world. The
album is a bit more mellow and is a perfect reflection of the reflective nature
of Easter.
Track List
1. Song for Hal
2. In A Life
3. Scars
4. Resurrection Song
5. Easter Parade
6. COEXIST (I Will Bless The Lord At All Times?)
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