Damon Albarn’s band Gorillaz have been confirmed as the act who will step in for U2 at June’s Glastonbury festival, following the Irish group’s enforced cancellation yesterday.
Rumours have been flying around since the announcement of U2’s decision to pull out, with the likes of The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and Kylie Minogue strongly touted as potential replacements, but organiser Michael Eavis has moved quickly to bring in Albarn’s and cartoonist Jamie Hewlett’s project. “I’m very excited about Gorillaz’ show coming here because they’re so open to guests and collaborations,” commented Eavis. “The alchemy of Friday’s show is going to be astonishing – a perfect, contemporary way to kick off the 40th anniversary celebrations.”
Eavis also promised festival goers a “massive audio visual spectacle which will really ignite the Pyramid Stage,” while Damon Albarn said it was “a terrible thing for U2, Glastonbury is magical”, but added: “Gorillaz will come to life on that stage but we wish Bono all the best.”
Jamie Hewlett has also told of his initial doubts of Gorillaz’ suitability for the festival, but insisted their appearance at the Coachella festival proved they will be a hit next month. “I wasn’t sure how Gorillaz would work in a festival environment, but Coachella was amazing,” he said. “I think Glastonbury will be an unbelievable experience for us.”
Gorillaz will join Muse and Stevie Wonder at the end of June for what will be the 40th anniversary of the legendary festival.