U2's lead singer, Bono, has taken a strong stance against various global issues, including the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as the band releases their first collection of new songs since 2017. The politically charged EP, titled 'Days of Ash', highlights several high-profile deaths and protests around the world.
The opening track, 'American Obituary', pays tribute to Renee Good, a mother of three who was killed by ICE agents while protesting in Minneapolis. Bono's powerful lyrics describe Good as a 'woman committed to nonviolent civil disobedience' and criticizes the labeling of protesters as 'domestic terrorists'.
'Song of the Future' focuses on the Women, Life, Freedom protest movement in Iran, honoring Sarina Esmailzadeh, a 16-year-old who died during the protests. Bono portrays the Iranian ruling class as a 'priestly class of men' whose interpretation of sacred texts is used to oppress dissenters.
'One Life at a Time' is dedicated to Awdah Hathaleen, a Palestinian activist killed in the West Bank. Bono describes the killing as 'heinous' and hopes the song will serve as a 'balm'.
'The Tears of Things' draws inspiration from Richard Rohr's book, addressing violence and anger through a conversation between Michelangelo's David and its sculptor. The EP also features a poem by Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai, read by Nigerian musician Adeola.
Bono emphasizes the importance of Jewish culture and its impact on Western civilization, while also criticizing the response to the October 7 attacks on Israel. He acknowledges the lives lost in Sudan and criticizes the Trump administration's cuts to foreign aid.
The closing track, 'Yours Eternally', features Ed Sheeran and Ukrainian musician-soldier Taras Topolia. The song is a letter from a soldier on duty during the conflict with Russia, inspired by Topolia's experience. Bono praises Sheeran's talent and Topolia's resilience.
U2's new music marks a significant return after a few one-off songs and albums in recent years. The band's activism and political commentary have been a defining aspect of their career, with Bono expressing the need for a 'radical center' in politics to counter both far-right and far-left ideologies. The EP is followed by a new album, which will explore themes of celebration and joy.
