Five R.E.M. concerts in Dublin sold out

DUBLIN, Ireland, April 2 (UPI) -- Tickets for the five nights of R.E.M.'s "Working Rehearsal" concert at the legendary Olympia Theater in Dublin in July are sold out.

The group, recently enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, begins work on its next record this spring with producer Jacknife Lee, who produced records for U2, Snow Patrol, Bloc Party and Aqualung, according to R.E.M.'s Web site.

The band said the five-show set gives it with a chance to play new material before a live audience before the band's 14th record hits the shelves.

"Returning to Dublin for our live rehearsal this summer provides the great start we need for our next album's work," said R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe. "I intend to hit the ground running."

Bassist Mike Mills said the band selected the Olympia, built in 1879, in part because of the shows the band has seen on its historic stage through the years.

"From the Waterboys to Lou Reed. I am thrilled to play at this wonderful venue, and in front of some of the best fans in the world," Mills said.