Brit nominees The Zutons will support R.E.M at their concert at Portman Road on Friday 8^th July, 2005.

The Zutons, who have been nominated in this year's Brits in the British Breakthrough Act category, will provide the main support to R.E.M with an opening act for the summer gig still to be confirmed.

Commenting on the announcement ITFC Chief Executive Derek Bowden said: "We are delighted that The Zutons have been added to the bill, their album is riding high in the charts and they will appeal to a slightly younger audience than R.E.M.

"We are also hoping to announce a third act shortly which will further enhance the experience on the night. "

            R.E.M - at Portman Road

Following a series of acclaimed one-off performances in the UK last year, 2005 will be a major touring year for R.E.M, with not one but two European tours and dates in Japan, South Africa and Australia.The band's new single, the compulsive, 'Electron Blue' is released on February 28^th.

Seats for the gig at Suffolk's number one venue are all but sold out, but standing tickets are still available through 0870 143 2204 or 0870 145 1114 or online at: www.seetickets.com or www.ticketmaster.co.uk