Joel Plaskett Emergency to open for McCartney in Halifax

Paul McCartney has chosen Halifax indie band Joel Plaskett Emergency to open for his July 11 concert in the city.

The band posted the news on its website Thursday.

On June 16, the former Beatle announced he wanted a Canadian supporting act for his show at the Halifax Common, his only Canadian tour date this summer.

Halifax-area bands scrambled to catch McCartney's ear ever since, sending tapes of their music in hopes of being chosen.

Joel Plaskett Emergency will be accompanied by singers Rose Cousins and Anna Ege and Plaskett's father, Bill Plaskett.

Joel Plaskett Emergency, led by rock musician and singer Joel Plaskett, are currently touring in support of their 2009 album Three.

The grouphas been nominated forthree Juno Awards and has won multiple East Coast Music Awards.

McCartney's Halifax appearance is his first Canadian gig since last year's controversial concert in honour of Quebec's 400th birthday.