U2 Releases Surprise EP 'Easter Lily' on Good Friday

Rock band U2 has released a surprise six-track EP titled Easter Lily, arriving less than two months after its previous unannounced project, Days of Ash.

The new EP was released on Good Friday, continuing a pattern of timing releases around significant religious observances. Days of Ash debuted on Ash Wednesday.

In a statement accompanying the release, frontman Bono said the band remains in the studio working toward a forthcoming album.

"We are in the studio, still working towards a noisy, messy, 'unreasonably colourful' album to play live ... which is where U2 lives," Bono said.

The EP includes six tracks, among them "Song for Hal," featuring vocals by guitarist The Edge. The song was written in tribute to producer Hal Willner, who died in 2020 and would have turned 70 on April 6.

According to a press release, the project explores themes of friendship, resilience and faith. Tracks include "In a Life," described as a celebration of friendship, and "Scars," which focuses on acceptance and perseverance. "Resurrection Song" is framed as a journey into the unknown with a companion, while "Easter Parade" reflects themes of rebirth and renewal.

The closing track, "COEXIST (I Will Bless the Lord at All Times?)," is described as a lullaby for parents of children affected by war and features a soundscape by producer Brian Eno.

Bono said the band is using the current moment as inspiration for introspection and songwriting.

"It's a time that has our band digging deeper into our lives to find a wellspring of songs to try to meet the moment," he said.

He added that the project raises personal and philosophical questions about relationships, faith and the role of religion in a divided world.

The title Easter Lily also references Easter, a 1978 album by Patti Smith, which Bono cited as an early influence.

U2 is continuing work on a new album expected later this year. The project will mark the band's first release of new material since 2017's Songs of Experience. Its most recent album, 2023's Songs of Surrender, featured reimagined versions of earlier songs.

Track listing for 'Easter Lily':

• "Song for Hal"
• "In a Life"
• "Scars"
• "Resurrection Song"
• "Easter Parade"
• "COEXIST (I Will Bless the Lord at All Times?)" featuring a soundscape by Brian Eno