As if it weren't enough to play three sold out dates here last week, REM received further testament to their Irish popularity when they were presented with a plaque to commemorate double platinum sales of Around The Sun.

Pictured here with the crew from Warner Music Ireland, REM return to Ireland on the other side of their world tour, playing an al fresco gig at Ardgillan Castle in the summer. Also joining them on June 19 are special guests Moby, The Zutons and The Devlins. Tickets for that event are on sale now form the usual outlets.

Meanwhile, stay tuned to hotpress.com for Colin Carberry's live review of REM from their Belfast date last Friday.