I had the pleasure of being invited to the launch of the Sony Ericsson Temple House Festival on Tuesday night at the wonderful Solas Bar in Dublin, and I left later that evening highly impressed and excited; not just because I had a great time with friends I hadn't seen in a long time, and not because I got to have a few pints and a chat with some people from "the industry", but because I was flabbergasted and in somewhat awe at the strong line-up that have been confirmed for the festival, which takes place on September 10-12th at the glorious 1,000 acre Georgian estate near Ballymote, Sligo.

The artists include The Undertones, along with The Stunning, electro legends, New Young Pony Club, The 202's, Donal Dineen, Ronan O'Snodaigh, Davide Swarup, The Walls, Exit Calm, Clampdown DJs, Motion Control and more to be announced. The festival offers more than just a fantastic mix of music, as you can clearly see. There'll also be poetry readings, holistic therapies, face painting, farmers markets, art exhibitions, a clothes and jewellery fair and a variety of other goings-on. It's a varied and creative blend of attractions, which is even more astounding considering that it is only the first year of the event.

Tickets are on sale tomorrow now from the superb price of €59 for three days, with camping. This is one festival that I personally would love to go. After all, it's a wonderful location with a good mix of music and entertainment, and it can only get better from here.

Sligo has set the standard high for the Irish festival. Could this be the real boutique gathering?

Tickets are on sale now from www.tickets.ie, City Disks or Road Records (Dublin), Cork Tickets, or Record Room (Sligo).