Irish rock legends U2 have returned with their latest six-track EP, Days of Ash, which has immediately captured critical attention worldwide. Despite its brevity, the release delivers songs brimming with political intensity, social justice advocacy, and profound reflections on contemporary global issues. Lead singer Bono described the tracks as “eager to meet the world,” a sentiment echoed by critics during its opening week.
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International Critical Response
| Country | Publication | Key Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | Spiegel | “Days of Ash is an expression of anger the world has long awaited.” |
| Italy | Il Corriere della Sera | “U2 fights for freedom through their music.” |
| France | Le Parisien | “In these crazy times, nothing is ordinary: U2 has released a politically potent EP.” |
| Spain | ElDiario.Es | “An album against ICE: we believe in a world where human dignity is non-negotiable.” |
Ireland: Home Ground and Political Engagement
In Ireland, the EP has been lauded for both its production quality and political ambition. Tom Dunne of The Irish Examiner wrote, “U2 is back—full force, merciless. Bono is focused, passionate, and inspiring. The Edge’s guitar soars, Adam Clayton’s bass is relentless, and Larry Mullen Jr delivers his finest performance yet.”
Una Mullally of The Irish Times praised the blend of power and subtlety, calling the songs “a plea for peace, yet layered with strength and softness.” Meanwhile, Irish Independent highlighted the EP’s thematic range, noting that “from schoolgirl rebellion to the war in Ukraine, these six new songs show that Bono and the band still have vital messages to share.”
United Kingdom & United States: Political Resonance
UK critics have recognised U2’s reaffirmation as a politically engaged band. The Guardian’s Alexis Petridis commented, “The six new tracks re-establish the band as a political voice, combining old U2 fervour with strong guitar and bass.” London Standard and MOJO Magazine described the EP as “evidence of creative resurgence.”
Across the Atlantic, Billboard observed, “In a tumultuous world, U2 boldly shares their perspective once again.” Publications such as USA Today, Variety, and Rolling Stone labelled the EP “politically intense” and “highly relevant to contemporary issues.”
Critical Summary
Though brief, Days of Ash demonstrates that U2 remains deeply engaged with social and political issues. Its six tracks, addressing conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the global migration crisis, underscore the band’s enduring commitment to using music as a vehicle for meaningful messages.
Small in length but formidable in impact, this EP reinforces that U2 continues to be relevant, influential, and “aflame with political fire.”