Legendary Irish rock band U2 is making its long-awaited return with a new studio album after nine years, bringing fresh music and a deeply emotional collaboration with the late country music icon Dolly Parton.
The band’s upcoming album, Carnaval De Luz, is scheduled for worldwide release on November 13, 2026, through Island Records. Featuring 12 tracks, the project marks U2’s 16th studio album and first full-length collection of new material since 2017’s Songs of Experience. Produced by longtime collaborator Garret “Jacknife” Lee, the release arrives as the group celebrates its 50th anniversary in the music industry.
One of the album’s most significant highlights is its closing track, Torn, a duet between U2 frontman Bono and Dolly Parton. According to the band’s official announcement, the collaboration features what became the country legend’s final recorded vocal performance before her death in August 2026. The song gives the upcoming album added emotional significance, bringing together two influential voices from different generations and musical genres.
The release also follows U2’s earlier 2026 projects, including the extended plays Days of Ash and Easter Lily. Together, these releases mark a renewed period of musical activity for the band, which has spent decades building an international following through its rock anthems, major concert tours, and socially conscious songwriting.
For longtime U2 fans, Carnaval De Luz represents more than a comeback after nearly a decade without a full album of new songs. It marks another milestone in the band’s 50-year career while preserving one of Dolly Parton’s final contributions to recorded music. With the November 13 release approaching, the album is set to bring both a celebrated return and a poignant musical farewell to listeners worldwide