# 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.
- Title: U2: 'You have to up your game when people step into the room…
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: carnaval de luz, brian eno, fontaines d.c., rosalía, lambrini girls, the edge, bono, stadium tour, defiant joy, 50th anniversary, collaboration, NME
- Source: NME — https://nme.com/news/music/u2-interview-carnaval-de-luz-bono-the-edge-new-music-tour-3975696
- Published: 2026-11-11T16:00:26+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: u2, carnaval de luz, brian eno, fontaines d.c., rosalía, lambrini girls, the edge, bono, stadium tour, defiant joy, 50th anniversary, collaboration
## U2's New Album
U2 released their 16th album 'Carnaval de Luz' after 50 years together.
## Brian Eno's Influence
Brian Eno helped U2 deconstruct their music and create 'The Unforgettable Fire' in 1984.
## Carnival Spirit
U2 draws inspiration from carnival's history of mocking authority and political resistance.
## Defiant Joy
The album 'Carnaval de Luz' offers defiant joy through collaboration with artists like Fontaines D.C. and Rosalía.
## 50th Anniversary
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 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.
## Key takeaway

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