SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: U2 – CARNAVAL DE LUZ

U2
CARNAVAL DE LUZ
ISLAND RECORDS

Carnaval De Luz (which translates from Spanish and Portuguese to “Carnival of Light” in English) is U2’s 16th studio album, and their first since 2023’s Songs Of Surrender. Earlier in 2026, U2 surprised fans with the release of two EPs, Days Of Ash and Easter Lily. While they recorded those two EPs, they started working on what would become Carnaval De Luz. A version of Carnaval De Luz does include the first physical copies of the two EPs. The album also features the final recording of Dolly Parton, who sings on the song “Torn.” And in a sense that song, which ends the album, is the perfect ending to a new U2 album that does not sound entirely like a typical U2 album.

Sure, their trademark sound is there, but the band seems to be revisiting their punk days and incorporating that energy into the music. But the whole album is not just that. They deliver a song such as “Glorify,” a sparse song that features strong vocals from Bono. The same can be said for the brilliant “If The World Is At War We Better Not Be” which bears the influence of Brian Eno (who plays on the album) and has an ambient foundation that works as the song builds and layers of vocals. This is followed by the rocker “Silencio,” which is a jarring contrast following the previous song. But it works. U2 have always had a great ear when sequencing their albums. “Street Of Dreams” is another track, where the band use layers vocals with a tip of the hat to ambient

Lyrically, Bono continues to explore politics, both universally and in private relationships. “Torn” is a good example. “We live in a house divided,” could be about America or a couple. With Parton the two make a great duo and the song has the emotional punch one would hope the two could conjure. Bono uses words economically and forcefully. “The Greatest Show On Earth,” for example, has a strong melody and exp “If I couldn’t sing you my life, out here in the spotlight” is a brilliant opening set to a strong rhythm courtesy drummer Lary Mullens Jr and bassist Adam Clayton. Throw in The Edge’s trademark guitar, and you have a new classic U2 song.

U2 is a very important band, and they have earned all of their accolades over the years. They have been together since 1978 without a single member change, which does explain their signature sound. That longevity is a remarkable achievement, and as such, this is a tight band that one gets the impression can read the thoughts of their other members. With Carnaval De Luz they are not reinventing themselves or trying to be the current flavour of the month. What they do with this album is revisit their older glories and create new music and sounds. And as a legacy band it is near impossible to not compare their new music to their classic albums. With a world tour booked for next year to support the album, 2027 just might be their year…again. And I can’t help but think the sleeve is an homage to The Beatles Abbey Road.

Artist Links