When Larry Mullen pinned a notice on the wall of Mount Temple Comprehensive looking for like-minded lads to start a band, neither he nor the world knew what was coming. It's 40 years since the first meeting of a group of teenagers in Mullen's kitchen – and 40 years since the very first steps of what would become the global phenomenon that is U2.

To celebrate four full decades of Ireland's greatest export, the new issue of Hot Press is taking a trip down memory lane. From those who were there at the beginning to those swept up along the away, we talk to friends, fans and familiar faces to explore the career of the world's biggest band.

Elsewhere, we talk with more of the best in homegrown talent; Booka Brass tell us about their transition from stage to studio; Wallis Bird reflects on her incredible new album Home, The Divine Comedy's Neil Hannon tells of his domestic bliss as LP No. 11 hits shelves; and – while in a rather different field – we speak to Becky Lynch, Ireland's first ever WWE Women's Champion.

The Hot Press interview is focused on one of Ireland's most talented and controversial chefs, as JP McMahon spills the beans on the hedonism of the industry, sex in the restaurant, and how a Michelin star sent a lifelong friendship unravelling.

There's also chats with synth-pop sadsters Polica, author Jay McInerney, actor Alexander Skarsgard, and the man behind new Netflix blockbuster Luke Cage, Cheo Hodari Coker. Add in the usual mix of news, views, reviews, previews and much, much more, and you're looking at another bumper issue of Hot Press, on shelves tomorrow!

You can buy Hot Press 40-17, our U2 40th Anniversary Special direct from hotpress.com
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