R.E.M. release the second single from their current album, Up, next Monday (Dec 7). Lotus is the most upbeat-sounding song on an otherwise dirgy album, and the band will be performing it live on TFI Friday tonight (Fri 4)

U2 are honoured in the new Classic Albums series which will be aired on ITV in the New Year. The band's Joshua Tree album will be featured, along with Meat Loaf's Bat Out Of Hell and Bob Marley & The Wailers' Catch A Fire.

Amazing what you can find in the Garbage these days, such as your very own e-mail address. Garbage is offering fans a free e-mail service through their website at http:// www.garbagemail.com. Sign up and get your very own name@garbage.com address, plus band updates and free music downloads.