Pop: The Five Best gigs

1

Billy Bragg & the Blokes Mon

Bragg is at his best ever and he's doing a few more dates that mix up his own songs with those from Mermaid Avenue, the excellent project based on lyrics written by Woody Guthrie.

Waterfront, Norwich (0603 63277)

2

Underworld Tue

It may have been nearly three years since the success of "Born Slippy" but this 0-date tour, in support of the new Beacoup Fish album, is already close to selling out.

Civic, Wolverhampton (0902 5522)

3

Boom Boom Satellites Thur

There's no doubting the live capabilities of this Japanese duo who blitz their way through hip-hop, rock and techno with loads of surprises.

Mass, London SW2 (07-738 5255)

4

Mercury Rev Mon

A gig on that was completely sold-out on the strength of their highly-acclaimed Deserter's Songs album, though opinion is split as to how successfully they can do the business in a live arena.

Forum, London NW5 (07-344 0044)

5

Robbie Williams Tonight

The popularity of the Brits' triple winner is still in the supersonic ascendant. The man can do no wrong. Needless to say tickets for this show are hard to find.

Wembley Arena, London (08-902 0902)

FIVE THAT COULD BE WORTH A TRY

Jason Falkner

A UK debut showing off the excellent power-pop Can You Still Feel? album.

Upstairs, The Garage, London N5 (07-607 88) Mon

The Junket

Abrasive yet incredibly catchy trio promoting their new single "You're the Same" on Deceptive.

Water Rats, London WC (07-284 0077) Wed

Cake

Complex Cali rockers that sway from noise to twang

ULU, London WC (07-664 2030) Thur

Dot Allison

Solo show for the former White Dove vocalist.

Improv Theatre, London W (07-387 244) Tue

Stiff Little Fingers

Mixing hits with material from their new album.

Waterfront, Norwich (0603 764764) Sun; Junction, Cambridge (0223 55) Tue; Rock City Nottingham (05-958 8848) Wed