By Rob Bartlett
Tico Times Staff | editorial@ticotimes.net

U.S. alternative rock group The Smashing Pumpkins is the latest band confirmed to appear at Festival Imperial at La Guácima de Alajuela on Apr. 19-20. Californian rock group Incubus and British '80s pop icons Duran Duran had already been confirmed by organizers.

“We are absolutely delighted to have a lineup of absolutely top international bands, really iconic groups,” Carlos Cañas, CEO of Imperial, told The Tico Times.

He also said “There are still at least two more bands yet to be announced,” and that more details would be available at the end of the week.

The Smashing Pumpkins will headline the first day of the festival, Saturday April 19, along with Incubus.

“In the case of Incubus and Smashing Pumpkins, we wanted to have a day with a more alternative focus. We also wanted to look for bands that would not come to Costa Rica if it weren't for the Festival Imperial. The two groups really complement each other and help us appeal to different types of people,” said Cañas.

“As for Duran Duran, obviously to close the Festival Imperial we wanted a really standout figure, like last year when it was Sting. And Duran Duran is definitely one of the strongest and most significant groups around. The roots of their success are back in the '80s and beginning of the '90s, but it is also a band that is absolutely up to date,” said Cañas, noting that their latest release, “Red Carpet Massacre,” was recorded in collaboration with producer Timbaland and also features pop icon Justin Timberlake.

Tickets will go on sale Feb. 28. For more information, visit www.festivalimperial.com.