First Call, Last Call

First Call

SCOTTISH PROG-PUNK band Idlewild (right) perform a one-off spring date in May. They have a legendary gigging reputation, and while the four young lads make sure chaos is a standard, Idlewild offer a rare example of sophisticated punk rock. Citing The Stooges and Nirvana as influences, musically they are more of a cross between Jesus and Mary Chain and Blur. Radio 1 DJ Steve Lamacq champions their cause and the music press seems united in the view that they are well worth seeing.

The Garage, Glasgow (0141-332 1120) 31 May

Last Call

FOR THOSE determinedly avoiding the bustle of the Monet exhibition, here's your chance to see it in peace. Murmurs of discontent about crowds and long queues should be silenced when the Royal Academy follows the lead of some supermarkets and, for the show's last couple of days, stays open for 24 hours. Although it's debatable whether the after-effects of a night out and plenty of alcohol will enhance appreciation of the Impressionist's work, Monet after Midnight could potentially be wonderfully deserted and serene at 5am, allowing it to be appreciated in solitary bliss.

Royal Academy of Arts, London W1 (advance tickets 0171-413 1717) 17-18 Apr