Hawai'i fans have been waiting for the firm concert date since U2 postponed a series of concerts, part of its Vertigo Tour, because of illness within a band member's family. The original play date for Honolulu was April 8.

Now the headliners and concert promoters have sweetened the pot considerably with the addition of Pearl Jam, a huge draw in its own right.

"I don't know why or how this happened, but Pearl Jam is a super group itself and could easily sell out Aloha Stadium," said Tom Moffatt, veteran show presenter, who is involved with the Honolulu concert.

Pearl Jam, now touring North America, has been added as a special guest, joining U2 stage manager Rocco Reedy and his band, Rocco and the Devils as a supporting act.

Pearl Jam will only join U2 for the Honolulu gig — not the rest of U2's makeup concerts.

"It's going to be a great night in Hawai'i. The band (members) are really pleased Pearl Jam could join the bill — a great end to what already has been a very successful tour," U2 manager Paul McGuinness said in a prepared announcement.

There still is not a precise inventory on how many tickets have been purchased and/or returned, Moffatt said. The concert is believed to be a virtual sellout, however. Tickets previously issued will remain valid for assigned seats or an open space in front of the stage.

Ticket holders who want a refund may request one through July 27 at the point of purchase. Tickets that have been returned or released will go on sale Aug. 5 at the Aloha Stadium box office and at Ticketmaster locations; call (877) 750-4400 or go online at ticketmaster.com.

U2 resumes its tour Nov. 24 in Auckland, with playdates in Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney — all rescheduled performances.

Three Tokyo concerts have beeen added Nov. 29, 30 and Dec. 4, with the Honolulu finale closing out the tour.