The 'Elevation' rockers have been in the studio finishing their 13th album before Christmas and are set for an early spring release.

The album has been produced by Danger Mouse, best known for being half of Gnarls Barkley with Cee Lo Green as well as producing The Black Keys and Norah Jones.

Bass player Adam Clayton, has said of the as-yet-untitled record: "I think it's a bit of a return to U2 of old, but with the maturity, if you like, of the U2 of the last 10 years. It's a combination of those two things and it's a really interesting hybrid."

The band - completed by Bono, Larry Mullen Jr. and The Edge - are said to be looking for a corporate partner to help them announce the album in a Super Bowl commercial next February.

Meanwhile, the 'Where the Streets Have No Name' band's manager, Paul McGuinness - who has been with them since the star of their career - says he is going to be less involved with the group and is handing the reins over to Madonna's manager Guy Oseary.

A statement to IrishTimes.com read: "It could be seen as slightly poor etiquette for a manager to consider retiring before his artist has split, quit or died, but U2 have never subscribed to the rock and roll code of conduct.

"As I approach the musically relevant age of 64 I have resolved to take a less hands-on role as the band embark on the next cycle of their extraordinary career.

"I am delighted that Live Nation - who with Arthur Fogel have been our long term touring partners - have joined us in creating this powerful new force in artist management.

"I have long regarded Guy Oseary as the best manager of his generation and there is no one else I would have considered to take over the day-to-day running of our business."

Bang Showbiz