U2: “You have to up your game when people step into the room like Fontaines D.C.”

U2 have described their 16th album, ‘Carnaval de Luz’, as driven by “defiant joy”, linking its celebration and politics to the freedom and irreverence of carnival. Bono and The Edge said the band’s long collaboration with producer Brian Eno helped them explore their limitations, a creative approach that still shapes their music.

The album was produced by Jacknife Lee, with Eno also involved, and launched at an intimate BBC performance at Tate Modern. U2 are planning a stadium tour called ‘The Greatest Show On Earth’ for next year. They also said that following newer artists, including Fontaines D.C., Rosalía and Lambrini Girls, keeps them challenged and pushes them to raise their game.