In short: U2’s new album “Carnaval De Luz” is out on Friday, November 13, 2026. It is the band’s 16th studio album and their first full-length record of new material since 2017. It has 12 songs, is produced by Jacknife Lee and closes with “Torn”, a duet with Dolly Parton that turned out to be her last recorded vocal performance.

When is U2’s new album released?

The release date is November 13, 2026 — less than a week away. The album was announced in late September during the band’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, when U2 played two surprise street shows in Dublin and released the single “Silencio”. The first song from the record, “Street Of Dreams”, came out in July.

What do we know about “Carnaval De Luz”?

The title means “Carnival of Light” in Spanish and Portuguese. The band describes the songs as exploring spirituality, friendship, freedom and endurance in the face of dark forces. The album was made in the same period as the two surprise EPs released earlier in 2026, “Days of Ash” and “Easter Lily”. Those followed the church calendar from Lent to Easter; the new album is meant to come before them, as the carnival preceding Lent. In total, U2 will have released 24 new songs in 2026.

Guests include Brian Eno (co-writing and synths on three tracks), Martin Garrix (co-writing “Glorify”), Daniel Lanois (pedal steel) and Ryan Tedder. One track is titled “The Mirror Maker (Rosalía)”.

Why is the Dolly Parton duet such a big deal?

The closing song, “Torn”, is a tender country ballad about broken family ties, co-written by U2, Parton and Snow Patrol’s Johnny McDaid. According to the official statement, it is the late singer’s final recorded vocal performance — and for many listeners it will be the main reason to press play.

What formats will the album come in?

Streaming and digital download, standard CD and vinyl, plus limited coloured vinyl variants and deluxe vinyl and CD box sets.

What other albums are out in November 2026?

  • November 13 — also Holly Humberstone, Blackhaine, Snoh Aalegra and a Florence + the Machine live album.

  • November 11 — “Pirouette” by 2hollis.

  • November 20 — R.E.M.’s 25th-anniversary edition of “Reveal”.

FAQ

How many songs are on “Carnaval De Luz”?

Twelve.

Who produced U2’s new album?

Jacknife Lee, who has worked with the band since 2004’s “How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb”.

What was U2’s previous album?

Their last full-length album of new material was “Songs of Experience” in 2017.

Sources: Premier Guitar, Associated Press, The Irish News, Rolling Stone, Numéro.