U2 marks 50 years, breaks 9-year silence with 'Carnaval de Luz'

A half-century rock epic burns with radiant light

Irish rock giants 'U2' will mark the milestone of their 50th anniversary with a return to the public after nine years, releasing a new studio album. Universal Music officially announced that 'U2' will release their 16th studio album, 'Carnaval de Luz' (Carnaval De Luz), worldwide on Nov. 13.

The album's title means "carnival of light" in Korean. It weaves the power of perseverance and endurance—never surrendering even in pitch-black darkness—into lofty themes of spirituality, friendship and freedom. The 12-track album includes 'Silencio', a song carrying a powerful message. The closing track, 'Torn', is reportedly a duet completed by frontman Bono and the late 'Dolly Parton', the "queen of country music," who died last month, stirring both wistful nostalgia and anticipation among music fans worldwide.

Back to their roots, U2 stages surprise return that brings Dublin to a standstill

Ahead of their historic comeback, 'U2' made a dramatic return to their roots. On the 25th, the band staged two unannounced guerrilla concerts in Dublin, Ireland, its hometown. The musicians made a surprise visit to Mount Temple Comprehensive School, their musical cradle, and delivered a commanding live performance for about 1,000 students and faculty members. Later that afternoon, they appeared on the balcony of a cafe on Grafton Street in the heart of Dublin, instantly drawing a massive crowd and proving that their stature remains undiminished.

Formed in a small Dublin garage in 1976, 'U2' has sold a staggering 175 million records worldwide over the past half-century through 15 studio albums. The living legends, who have won a record 22 'Grammy Awards' and were inducted into the 'Rock and Roll Hall of Fame' in 2005, are now ready to demonstrate their unending musical evolution once again through 'Carnaval de Luz'.