So at the end of 2010 there was a lot of talk (by U2) of a new album in 2011. Now that 2011 is here, what's the time table for rumor, press release, radio leak, and final release of a single/album?
Right now there's no news, so is March even possible? May?
There is no strict timetable per se. Like you said, there hasn't been any news, so it would be next to impossible to predict the exact timeline for when to expect a single. We just can't do it. There are too many variables. So, we're basically playing the waiting game here. We are but lonely fishermen, adrift at sea, our lines cast in the blue. Waiting, hoping, praying. For a nibble. A bite of news. It's all we can do.
We can speculate, sure, but we can't truly know or expect anything until it's announced. So, let's speculate.
It's not likely but, theoretically, U2 could make a surprising move and announce an album on short notice. Or make the album available online in some way that goes against their standard album release practices. Again, not likely, but we really can't rule it out.
But one potential timetable that makes sense is for an album to be released in May to coincide with the start of the new North American leg of the 360 Tour. Which would mean, traditionally, that a single would appear sometime in March or April. So there is still time.
It has been posited, though, that for this "Album in May" timetable to work, we should expect to hear some legitimate concrete news very soon. As in, within the next few weeks.
People seem to be getting anxious, because it could be seen that this is almost a "now or never" (or at least, "now or 2013/14") thing for the band. The 360 Tour is inching toward the finish line. And it would be strange for them to release an album (especially one with a new, hip, respected producer like Danger Mouse)
after the conclusion of a huge tour. So, some are thinking, either this thing is released in May, or it's going to be a long wait.
Who knows? We sure don't.
Let's just put a worm on the hook, and wait. I'll buy the beer.
