Europe have just confirmed a nine-date tour of the UK in February 2010.

Sweden's biggest hard rock band, best known for their 1986 smash anthem "The Final Countdown" will play dates in Leeds O2 Academy (18th Feb), Birmingham O2 Academy (19th), London O2 Shepherds Bush Empire (20th), Oxford O2 Academy (22nd), Bournemouth O2 Academy (23rd), Bristol O2 Academy (24th), Manchester Academy (26th), Newcastle O2 Academy (27th) and Glasgow O2 ABC (Feb 28th).

The tour follows the 14th September release of Europe's critically acclaimed new studio album "Last Look At Eden" which features the singles "New Love In Town" and the title track. The album marks a departure from their "final countdown" sound to a heavier, bluesy, hip-shaking metal sound. The band recently headlined the UK's Bloodstock Festival to rave reviews. Metal Hammer had this to say about that performance:

Europe's note perfect, slickly choreographed show, pulls together all ages and tastes for a feel-good finale that smells like total victory.

The very special guests on the UK dates are British metal veterans Diamond Head. Tickets go on sale this Friday (18th September) at 9AM. All tickets are £17, with the exception of London (£18) - all prices + booking fee.