U2 drops “Easter Lily,” a six-song EP with spiritual themes, marking its second 2026 release after years without new material.
U2 has released its second six-song EP of 2026, titled Easter Lily, marking another step in the band’s renewed creative output after not issuing a collection of newly written material since 2017.
The EP was released at midnight on the East Coast as Good Friday began.
Easter Lily follows the band’s earlier 2026 EP, Days of Ash, which was released on Ash Wednesday, February 18. While Days of Ash focused on themes of war and global strife, Easter Lily presents a softer, more spiritual tone.
The track list for the new EP includes:
“Song for Hal”
“In a Life”
“Scars”
“Resurrection Song”
“Easter Parade”
“COEXIST (I Will Bless The Lord At All Times?)” – featuring a new soundscape by Brian Eno
Like its predecessor, Easter Lily is available only in digital format and is not being released on LP or CD. The EP is accompanied by an expanded digital edition of the band’s revived fan magazine, Propaganda.
In a message to fans, Bono confirmed that the band is continuing work on a separate full-length album, describing these EPs as side projects. He wrote that the group is “still working towards a noisy, messy, ‘unreasonably colourful’ album to play LIVE… which is where U2 lives,” adding that the band sees “vivid rock ‘n’ roll as an act of resistance” during challenging times.
Bono also reflected on the themes explored in Easter Lily, noting that the band asked personal questions about relationships, friendship, and faith in the current global climate. He referenced the influence of Patti Smith’s 1978 album Easter, calling the EP’s title a nod to that work.
He concluded his note by saying the band will promote the project more widely at a later time, adding, “this is between you and us” for now.
An official announcement described the songs individually. Song for Hal is a COVID-19 lockdown lament sung by the Edge and written in memory of Hal Willner. In a Life celebrates friendship, while “Scars” focuses on encouragement and acceptance. “Resurrection Song” explores the idea of a pilgrimage or journey into the unknown with a companion.
Easter Parade is described as a devotional piece celebrating rebirth and renewal. The final track, “COEXIST (I Will Bless The Lord At All Times?),” is a lullaby for parents of children affected by war and features a soundscape by Brian Eno.
What do you think about U2’s new EP “Easter Lily”? Do its spiritual themes and softer tone connect with you more than “Days of Ash,” or do you prefer their earlier style? Share your thoughts below.
