Bono Talks New U2 Album: “We’ve Been Recording, and It Sounds Like Future to Me”

Get the latest scoop as Bono reveals U2's fresh studio album is shaping up with a futuristic sound that propels the band back to the present moment.

Bono Updates Fans on U2’s Upcoming Album

Bono recently gave fans an intriguing update about U2’s next studio album, the follow-up to their 2017 release Songs Of Experience. While attending the Cannes Film Festival to promote his upcoming one-man feature Bono: Stories of Surrender, set to stream on Apple TV+ starting May 30, the iconic frontman opened up about the band’s new music.

Bono at Cannes Film Festival 2023

From Nostalgia to Now: A New Direction

When asked about the new album, Bono shared a thoughtful perspective:

“Nostalgia is not to be tolerated for too long, but sometimes you’ve got to deal with the past in order to get to the future and to the present. To get back to now is our desire. Get back to this moment we’re in.”
— Bono

He then revealed that the band has indeed been busy in the studio:

“We’ve been recording. And it sounds like future to me,” he said. “We had to go through some stuff, and we’re at the other end of it.”

Reuniting the Classic Lineup

In an exciting development, U2’s drummer Larry Mullen Jr., who had to step back during the band’s Las Vegas Sphere residency due to an injury and surgery recovery, has returned to the fold. Last November, The Edge confirmed Larry’s involvement in the studio sessions.

Bono told Rolling Stone:

“We’ve been playing in the room together, the four of us. And I can tell you [Mullen Jr.] is completely through whatever storm of injury he’s been through. His playing is at its most innovative. He’s just all about the band. He doesn’t want to talk about anything else, which is kind of amazing.”

Capturing the Magic of a Live Band

Bono emphasized the rarity of capturing the authentic energy of a full band playing live today:

“By the way, being a band in a room where each individual musician has a role that’s singular and collective is so rare because music is assembled these days. And even some of our music we have assembled, and we’ll do that again, but to try and capture a moment of a rock & roll band in full flight is at the heart of this record that we’re making that we’ve recorded, but we are not finished.”

What to Expect from the New Album

While Bono typically stays tight-lipped, The Edge has been the main source of updates for the band’s progress. Previously, Bono told radio host Zane Lowe that The Edge had around "100 in the bag," Bono himself had about 20, and bassist Adam Clayton also had contributions underway.

The Edge has hinted the new album won’t be a straightforward rock record. He described it as something different, and promised fans that new U2 music will be arriving “very soon.”

Bono’s New Documentary Adds Context

Bono’s one-man film, Stories of Surrender, shows a more intimate side of the rock legend. Shot at New York City’s Beacon Theatre, the documentary blends storytelling from Bono about his personal life and musical journey, touching on subjects like his father, his wife, and even opera legend Luciano Pavarotti.

Bono sharing stories in the documentary

Ready to Embrace the Future?

U2 is back in the studio, crafting a sound that pushes beyond nostalgia and looks boldly ahead. With Larry Mullen Jr. healed and firing on all cylinders, and the band playing together live once again, this album promises to capture the raw magic of true rock & roll energy blended with futuristic vibes.

Are you excited to hear what U2 has created? What directions do you imagine their sound will take?

FAQs About U2’s New Album

• When is U2’s new album expected to release?
  There’s no official release date yet, but the band has confirmed they’re still recording and working on it, with new music expected very soon.
• Is Larry Mullen Jr. back in the band for the new album?
  Yes, Larry has fully recovered from his injury and surgery and has returned to the studio sessions with the band.
• Will the new album sound like classic U2 rock?
  According to The Edge, it won’t be a “straight-up rock thing.” The band is exploring new sounds while maintaining their identity.
• What role does Bono’s documentary play in the new album cycle?
  Stories of Surrender offers an intimate look at Bono’s life and creative process, possibly setting the tone for the emotional depth of the new music.
• How involved are all band members in the songwriting?
  Bono mentioned The Edge has about 100 ideas, he’s got around 20, and bassist Adam Clayton also contributes, suggesting a collaborative effort.

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