U2 Announces 'Carnaval de Luz' for November 13, Featuring Dolly Parton's Final Duet

Key points

• U2's new album, 'Carnaval de Luz,' is scheduled for release on November 13, 2026.
• The album features the final recorded vocal performance of Dolly Parton on the track 'Torn.'
• The 12-track record is produced by Garret 'Jacknife' Lee, who has worked with the band since 2004.
• The album includes collaborations with Brian Eno, Martin Garrix, and Ryan Tedder.
• U2 released two surprise EPs, 'Days of Ash' and 'Easter Lily,' earlier this year, totaling 24 new songs in a calendar year.

Background

U2 first played together in Larry Mullen Jr.'s kitchen on September 25, 1976, marking their 50th anniversary this year. The band had not released a new album in nine years, but they released two surprise EPs, 'Days of Ash' and 'Easter Lily,' earlier this year. These EPs are conceptually linked to the new album via the liturgical calendar, with carnival preceding Lent and Easter. The three projects add up to 24 new songs, a record for the band in a single year.

How outlets are covering it

Rolling Stone emphasizes the album's 'anarchic' nature, highlighted by the punk single 'Silencio,' and the emotional impact of Dolly Parton's final recording. Variety focuses on the collaborative process, noting that Bono and Johnny McDaid rewrote the lyrics of 'Torn' to fit the band's style after Parton initially rejected an Irish folk-themed project. Yahoo highlights the album as a celebration of the band's 50th anniversary and the unprecedented productivity of the band in a single year. All sources agree on the release date and the significance of Parton's final vocal performance.

Why it matters

The release of 'Carnaval de Luz' is significant as it marks the first new album from U2 in nine years and coincides with their 50th anniversary. The inclusion of Dolly Parton's final recorded vocal performance adds a poignant and historical dimension to the album, making it a notable event in music history. The album's diverse collaborations and the band's unprecedented productivity in a single year highlight their continued relevance and creative energy.

What to watch

U2 is expected to promote 'Carnaval de Luz' with live performances and additional singles. The band may also release more content related to the album, including music videos and behind-the-scenes footage. The release of the album will likely be accompanied by a tour or a series of live events to celebrate their 50th anniversary.