Back together and Laois-bound are OutKast who will be in birthday mode.

“It’s truly an honour to celebrate 20 years and still be free to do music the way we choose,” enthuses Big Boi. “Don’t just think outside the box, know that there is no box. I’m looking forward to rocking the stage with my Bro Ski and to all the fans - stank you smelly much, this is for y’all!”

Someone else who hasn’t graced our shores for a while is Beck whose new album, Morning Phase, is described by the boy Hansen as a “companion piece” to his 2002 Sea Change classic.
Despite his penchant for lo-fi, Beck gives serious bang for buck live with Team Hot Press fondly remembering the awesome brass section he brought with him in 2000 to Witnness.

Also emerging from hibernation to play to the Picnic masses are Portishead, the legendary Bristolian outfit who kickstarted the trip hop movement but are far more than one genre ponies. They’ve been a massive influence on everyone from Kanye West and Fuck Buttons to The Weeknd and Moloko, and are currently incubating a new album.

Proving with their Olympia shows last year that they’ve reached the point of critical mass, Foals are another band who never short-change on stage. If you don’t believe us, check out their Holy Fire: Live At The Royal Albert Hall concert video. It’s also getting a Record Store Day release as a 3,000 limited-edition 12” vinyl album.

Other notable acts announced include, the west end boys themselves the Pet Shop Boys. The legendary Chic Ft. Nile Rodgers, the returning Paolo Nutini, Hot Press cover star Lily Allen, the captivating St. Vincent and many many more.

All your favourite stages and areas – The Hot Press Chatroom, Mindfield, Comedy Tent, Body & Soul, Trailer Park, Salty Dog, Trenchtown and Global Green – are back along with some new surprises.

Early Bird tickets are on sale now. As per last year, anyone with three proofs of past Picnic attendance will be able to get their Weekend Camping ticket for a knockdown €154.50. People who’ve previously booked through Ticketmaster will have a discount reward scheme code emailed to them.

The other March 19 – April 18 Early Bird ticket deals are €174.50 if you’ve been once or twice before, and €194.50 for all-comers.
Sunday tickets are €90 and there are also installment plans to spread the cost.

See [link]electricpicnic.ie/lineup.php[/link] for details of other Picnic acts.

Stay tuned to Hot Press for more as it arrives.