BellX1 and The Frames have been selected to represent Ireland at the EuroSonic Festival which takes place in Groningen, Holland on January 8 and 9.

Billed as "Europe's prime new talent event", the two-dayer has provided a valuable shop window in past years for the likes of The Libertines, Schneider TM, Bettie Serveert, JJ72 and David Kitt.

"The fact that the EuroSonic Showcase is not instantly recognised by English-speaking music fans reflects the British/American-centered view of the world we're fed by the London-based music business and MTV," reflects 2FM's Head of Music Production, Ian Wilson.

"There is life outside London and LA. Britain's most progressive and open radio DJ, John Peel, is broadcasting his show from EuroSonic this year. Peel knows what's going on but other DJs have a tendency to believe that civilisation starts and ends at the English channel."

As one of 28 European radio stations that nominates acts for the festival, 2FM will be broadcasting the BellX1 (January 8 @ 11.15pm) and The Frames (9 @ 01.00am) sets live. Also getting an airing is that John Peel special which airs at midnight on the first day.