The support slots for an appearance at Slane are a hallowed seat behind the right hand of a headliner. Some years it’s perfection, others it’s odd. This year we have three top live acts from Ireland in the support slots, which Goldenplec commends to the high heavens, but we (and it seems a lot of the internet) think that some of the additions just don’t fit the billing.
So today we can announce that Bon Jovi will be supported by The Coronas, Bressie and Ham Sandwich. Personally, I can’t wait to see what Podge can do in a crowd that big and to hear Niamhs voice echoing in the valley. I think the addition of Ham Sandwich is a brilliant live addition. The next two acts are undoubtedly popular and will shift tickets, and you have to think that’s the logic behind the move, but supporting Bon Jovi just seems off. Bressie has his new album, is one honest and genuine bloke as you can see in his recent writings about his personal life and has embraced a rockier sound on his latest work. The Coronas are a ticket selling machine and to the pop/rock side of the Jovi fanclub add some value to the ticket.
However it seems that for the majority responding to MCD’s announcement it was dismay. The question I guess is who they thought would be supporting. It’s clear that the Bon Jovi tickets are not moving as fast as promoters would like, and Bressie and The Coronas will bring their own crowd. Sales wise it could be a fantastic move. Billing wise it feels a bit odd.
Tickets are €79.50 inclusive of booking fee and are available from Ticketmaster.ie and outlets nationwide.