U2 to Play Slane Castle Fest

3.2.01 - Rollingstone.com

Chili Peppers, Coldplay and Kelis to join U2 in Ireland

U2's Elevation tour will conclude with an August 25th date at Slane Castle, marking the band's first concert appearance in Ireland in four years and the twentieth anniversary of their last performance at the castle back in 1981 when they opened for Thin Lizzy. The band also recorded its 1984 album, The Unforgettable Fire, at Slane Castle.

The performance will be part of a one day, ten-hour, outdoor music festival also featuring the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Coldplay, Kelis and new Irish acts JJ72 and Relish.

"We've waited a long time to do this," says drummer Larry Mullen. "It's going to be a beautiful day."

U2's North American tour is set to kick off on March 24th in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida before wrapping up June 22nd in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The itinerary for the European leg of the Elevation tour has not been set.

Tickets for the Slane Castle festival go on sale March 10th at www.ticketmaster.ie.

CHRISTINA SARACENO

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