The Edge has revealed that U2 is collaborating with Brian Eno on what he describes as "sci-fi Irish folk music."
Speaking on BBC Radio 2 during a special marking the 20th anniversary of U2’s 2004 album How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, the guitarist, whose real name is David Evans, shared insights into the band’s creative process and future plans.
When host Jo Whiley asked about U2’s upcoming projects, The Edge disclosed that he and frontman Bono have been experimenting in the studio with the ambient music pioneer.
"Bono and I are working on some crazy kind of sci-fi Irish folk music, which could end up becoming part of the new U2 album. We're not sure yet—we’ll see," he said with a smile. "Our process often involves veering far off track, and the act of pulling it back is what leads to unique sounding music."
He also hinted at the involvement of several "beautiful Irish musicians" in the project.
Larry Mullen Jr.’s Return
During the interview, The Edge provided an update on drummer Larry Mullen Jr., who had to sit out U2’s 40-date Las Vegas residency in late 2023 due to recovery from surgery.
"We’re at that great phase where we don’t have to overthink it—we’re just making music and loving the process," he said. "There are a couple of different projects underway. Definitely U2 with Larry, which is wonderful. He’s back in the studio, taking it easy but playing drums and recording with us. We’ll be doing a bit more before the end of the year."
Recent Releases
U2’s most recent album, Songs of Surrender, a collection of reinterpreted classics, was released in March 2023. Whether their latest experimental efforts will shape their next studio album remains to be seen, but fans can anticipate more innovative sounds from the iconic band.
