Marcus Mumford has pledged his love for Ireland in an interview in the latest issue of Hot Press magazine.

In an exclusive tete-a-tete to discuss their hot new album Babel, in advance of their upcoming Dublin appearance, the lead singer with the multi-million selling UK band was clearly looking forward to the opportunity to play Arthur's Day.

"Ireland's really important to us," Mumford told Celina Murphy of Hot Press. "The Arthur's Day thing fell at the right time for us, just as we release the record. We liked the idea of going to Ireland and having a day there, and spending some time there – because we really do love it."

The band will play at a secret location on the day, in what should be among the highlights of the Arthur's Day schedule – with stars like Example, Tinie Tempah, Amy MacDonald and Primal Scream also playing intimate pub shows in pub venues that won't be announced until the big day.

The fascinating and revealing interview with the Mumford and Sons mainman is part of a major Arthur's Day Special, which also includes interviews with Fatboy Slim, Example, Primal Scream, Irish breakthrough hopefuls Leaders Of Men and soul sensation Jessie Ware among others – as well as a preview of the action on the big day.

Hot Press, with Mumford and Sons on the cover is on sale now.