Now that is EXCITING news. I knew he'd said he thought he'd be back out in '10, but I guess that seals it. My bet is a new album, which is most certainly in the works (reported repeatedly), & then a tour similar to last years, to follow- a couple of shows a week, maybe a dozen or more North American dates. I hope he comes to Fenway Park again, as I'd love to see him there more than anywhere else, but anywhere in the Northeast & I'll make the trip.
I think he intends to do all he can to keep recording & playing live, as he loves it, but... We all know that the clock is ticking for everyone & that catching now is a wise choice...Read the great account of his Dublin show in another thread, where someone who is an admitted harsh critic of his vocals was blown away...so it was at Fenway, just amazing. And to keep playing at this high a quality, and shows of this length just can't last forever. If he's near, or even on your continent, do yourself a favor & don't miss him this next year!!