REM ticket sales limited to beat touts

A limited number of concert tickets for REM’s packed five-night Dublin showcase will be sold to combat ticket touts, organisers announced today.

The superstar band will rock the capital from tomorrow night treating fans to a special preview of the group’s upcoming new album.

Die-hard REM followers will get the rare opportunity to hear new material played for a live audience before the tracks appear on the band’s latest release.

The intimate surroundings of the Olympia Theatre on Dame St was viewed by the group as the perfect venue to showcase the new music.

Tickets were snapped-up by fans well in advance of the opening night, buoyed by the chance to get a sneak live preview of the group’s long-awaited 14th album.

But the Olympia said a limited number of tickets would be sold each day of the concert for €50 to combat ticket touts. These will be restricted to two per person.

REM’s first appearance in Dublin was nearly 23 years ago and a new website has been set-up detailing the band’s Irish history.

“Returning to Dublin for our live rehearsal this summer provides the great start we need for our next album’s work,” REM front man Michael Stipe said of the gigs.

“I intend to hit the ground running,” added bassist Mike Mills.

He said the band chose the Olympia because of its historic musical significance and because of the many great shows they’ve seen there over the years.

“From the Waterboys to Lou Reed, I am thrilled to play at this wonderful venue, and in front of some of the best fans in the world.”

The new music has been described as some of the most exciting and visceral yet.

To mark the occasion, a new website - remDublin.com - has been set up by the band for the fans attending the Dublin shows and for those who cannot make it.

The group is recording the new album, expected to be released later in the year, in Vancouver, Athens Georgia and Dublin.

They plan to collaborate with producer Jacknife Lee and recorded in Vancouver for a few weeks before coming to Ireland.

REM will rock the capital tomorrow night, and on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of next week.

Further information can be obtained by contacting the Olympia.