Ananova:

Steve Lillywhite is to produce U2's next album - his first for the band in 20 years.

Lillywhite has quit his job as joint managing director of Mercury UK to return to the studio.

He told Billboard: "It's the first time I'll have gone in to actually start a record with them in 20 years.

"I worked on The Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby and All That You Can't Leave Behind, but this will be the first time I've really set up the mikes and done everything for a long time."

The as-yet-untitled U2 album is due out on Interscope/Island later this year.

Lillywhite, who produced U2's first two albums, added: "I've heard some great songs. The Edge is playing some really great guitar."

One of Britain's top rock producers, Lillywhite's list of credits includes the Rolling Stones, Talking Heads, Peter Gabriel and Morrissey.