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Cover art for U2: 'You have to up your game when people step into the room like Fontaines D.C.'

U2: 'You have to up your game when people step into the room like Fontaines D.C.'

U2's new album 'Carnaval de Luz' and their 50-year journey with Brian Eno.

Nov 11, 2026

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U2: 'You have to up your game when people step into the room like Fontaines D.C.'

U2's new album 'Carnaval de Luz' and their 50-year journey with Brian Eno.

In brief

U2's new album 'Carnaval de Luz' and their 50-year journey with Brian Eno. U2's new album 'Carnaval de Luz' offers defiant joy through collaboration with artists like Fontaines D.C. and Rosalía. Originally reported by NME.

U2's New Album

U2, 2026. Credit: Michael Schwartz

U2 released their 16th album 'Carnaval de Luz' after 50 years together.

Brian Eno's Influence

U2 with Brian Eno live at The Tate Modern for the BBC. Credit: Rich Fury

Brian Eno helped U2 deconstruct their music and create 'The Unforgettable Fire' in 1984.

Carnival Spirit

U2 live at Mount Temple in Dublin, 2026. Credit: Rich Fury

U2 draws inspiration from carnival's history of mocking authority and political resistance.

Defiant Joy

Fontaines D.C. live at Reading 2026. Credit: Andy Ford for NME

The album 'Carnaval de Luz' offers defiant joy through collaboration with artists like Fontaines D.C. and Rosalía.

50th Anniversary

U2, 2026. Credit: Vivane Sassen

U2 celebrated their 50th anniversary with a stadium tour and new music.

Fontaines D.C. Impact

U2 says Fontaines D.C. forces them to 'up your game' with their unique sound.

“You have to up your game when people step into the room like Fontaines D.C.”

Rosalía Collaboration

U2 wrote 'The Mirror Maker' about Rosalía's unique artistic perspective.

Lambrini Girls

U2 admires Lambrini Girls for their sonic innovation and unique sound.

Stadium Tour

U2 will tour globally in 2027 with Wolf Alice supporting.

Collaboration Philosophy

U2 believes bands improve each other through mutual respect and shared goals.

50-Year Journey

U2, 2026. Credit: Michael Schwartz

U2 has been together for 50 years, with Brian Eno as a key collaborator.

Defiant Music

U2's music combines protest, reflection, and dance to create 'defiant joy'.

Mainstream Challenges

U2 felt they 'failed the mainstream' with their last two albums.

Carnival History

Carnival has historically mocked authority and political power through satire.

U2's Advice

U2 advises new bands to stay true to their vision and collaborate with others.

Future of Music

U2 believes music should serve as a tool for social change and connection.

The main idea

U2's new album 'Carnaval de Luz' offers defiant joy through collaboration with artists like Fontaines D.C. and Rosalía.

Read the original on NME

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