U2 is a worldwide household name with an impressive line up of productions that span nearly 40 years, and they are returning with another album this year.

After its release on Dec. 1, listeners can expect to see the band’s next alternative-rock album, “Songs of Experience,” climbing the charts. To an attentive eye, the name of the album might bring back thoughts of a previous release from the musical group. In 2014, they released “Songs of Innocence,” with an obvious contrast to the coming album’s title. Yet, this production is meant to be a companion to its prior, exploring the same themes in similar light—not to mention, similar black and white cover photos. This time however the album will not be free of charge to 500 million iTunes costumer weeks in advance to its debut, a controversial move made by Apple that in the long run boosted sales for the U2.

The original plan was to complete and reveal the full creation by the end of last year, but with a shift in political tides, the group felt it necessary to rework the lyrics and pull new inspiration sonically from “The Joshua Tree,” which was produced in changing times as well. Many verses are taken verbatim from letters Bono wrote to loved ones. The laborious efforts can be seen in singles, like “Get Out of Your Own Way.” The track plays to the talents of the Edge and the other instrumentalists with deep guitar chords and a familiar serenity in every moment. Bono’s voice matches the rolling contemplation, as Kendrick Lamar imparts his wisdom towards the end. Lamar’s verse leads directly into the next song, “American Soul,” a grungier track with punchy lyrics.

Titans of alternative sound, U2 has procured another album that will fall in line with their impactful repertoire.