Irish supergroup U2 has only played in Finland twice before.

THIS Friday and Saturday nights sees Irish super group U2 appearing at Helsinki’s Olympic Stadium, bringing with them the live spectacular of their U2 360° Tour. One of the most successful bands of all time, the band has sold more than 150 million records worldwide and has won 22 Grammy Awards.

Performing in support of their 2009 album No Line on the Horizon, the band has previously only played in Finland twice: back in 1982 and also when their controversial PopMart tour rolled into town in August 1997.

Taking its name from the unique live setting that allows the audience 360 degree views, the stage is dominated by a massive four-legged supporting rig that has been nicknamed “The Claw”, setting a world record for the largest concert stage structure.

The tour has already grossed over 300 million dollars in a mere 44 concerts, a result of a tiered ticketing pricing system, along with increased capacity due to the nature of the stage.

Two of the U2 360° Tour’s concerts in America are in the top five highest attended single concerts in the United States ever, with the 25 October performance in Pasadena, California setting the record at 97,014 attendees.

Not to be outdone with mere earthly pursuits, previous concerts on the tour have boasted a link up with the International Space Station, with crewmember Frank DeWinne performing a verse of obscure track Your Blue Room along with the band.

After philanthropic front man Bono’s recent back surgery that postponed the entire spring leg of their North American tour, Finnish fans can expect a re-energised group eager to be back on stage.

Those who cannot make it to enjoy the extravaganza in Helsinki on the weekend, however, can take solace in the live DVD U2 360° at the Rose Bowl.

Support both nights comes from British rockers Razorlight.

JAMES O’SULLIVAN - HT