POP: THE FIVE BEST GIGS

1

Metallica, Big Day Out today

A varied support for the metal kings ranges from glammish pretenders (Marilyn Manson, Placebo) to the superbly noisy (Monster Magnet).

Milton Keynes Bowl (05-92 95)

2

The Fleadh today

Van Morrison returns to headline the the 0th annual festival of Guinness guzzling. For further Fleadh details, see Preview, p2.

Finsbury Park, London N4 (054 500 044/08 963 0940)

3

Afghan Whigs Mon

Intense bass-driven soulful rock from John Curley and crew. Fantastic live as long as egotistic singer Dulli can tone his ego down between songs.

Camden Palace, London NW (07-387 0428)

4

Oumou Sangare tomorrow

The great voice of Mali returns with her own band after last year's startling performance on last year's "Women of Africa" tour. Corey Harris supports.

Royal Festival Hall, London SE (07-960 4242)

5

Carl Craig's Innerzone Orchestra Fri

Trailing a new album that's out in August, techno-hero Craig and pals go live in a very interesting one-off UK club date.

Scala, London NW (07-833 2022)