Cult rockers the Replacements came close to reuniting at the upcoming Coachella Festival in California, after receiving a lucrative offer from organizers to perform.

The group, led by Paul Westerberg, split 17 years ago but seriously considered an offer from Coachella to join the three day weekend's line-up.

Band member Tommy Stinson tells Billboard.com, "We actually talked about it again this year, and I think there was a consensus that, you know, maybe it wasn't the right time. Paul and I were kind of in cahoots talking to them (and) talking to (his manager) Darren (Hill). There were some things thrown out, and there were other festivals that wanted it too, if we were going to do it."

The plan was for Westerberg and Stinson to reteam with celebrated session drummer Josh Freese, who would replace retired Chris Mars, and an unnamed lead guitarist, who would replace Stinson's half-brother Bob, who died in 1995.

But Stinson adds, "At the last minute, it just didn't seem like the right thing to do, so we didn't do it. But I think Paul and I have something to offer each other still."

Coachella has become famous for reunions in recent years - the Pixies, Jesus & Mary Chain, Rage Against The Machine and Crowded House all staged shows at the desert festival. This year, the reunited Verve and Swervedriver will perform at the event, which begins on Friday.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)