POP: THE FIVE BEST GIGS

Jon Spencer Blues Explosion today

Day two of Matador's "Nice Weekend In London" with the special guests headlining a diverse bill that includes Japan's maverick wonderkid Cornelius and NY hip-hop crew the Arsonists. ULU, London WC1 (0171 664- 2030)

Gangstarr Wed

A rare one-off UK appearance for one of hip-hop's most revered acts of the

Nineties, in town to promote their Full Clip best-of collection. Astoria, Charing Cross Road, London W1 (0171 434-0403)

Luba Wed

Dean Wareham's dreamy rockers are on top form as their recent "The Days of Our Nights" suggests. Scott 4 offer enlightened support. Embassy Rooms, London W1 (0171 387-2414)

The Clint Boon Experience Thur/Fri

In what's becoming one of the comebacks of the Nineties, the former Inspiral Carpet brings his space opera crew on the road to support their new album (see reviews). Cavern Club, Exeter (01392 495370) Thur; Winter Gardens, Eastbourne (01323 412000) Fri

Yo La Tengo tomorrow

The final night of the Matador 10th anniversary weekend sees the much-loved New Jersey veterans head a strong cast of Bardo Pond, The Wisdom Of Harry, Mark Eitzel and Jega. ULU, London WC1 (0171 664-2030)

FESTIVAL OF THE WEEK

Homelands - Scotland

The last big festival of the year sees a northern version of the successful Homelands all-dayer and all-nighter in the spring. This time, however, the line-up seems a little slimmer. Headlining the event are the Chemical Brothers, with Liam Howlett and Hybrid the other interesting inclusions in the main arena. The second tent is headed by the ubiquitous Tong, Oakenfold and Rampling while the third tent, sponsored by The End club, caters for more tastes with Carl Cox (above), Roni Size, Mr C and Breakbeat Era. Royal Highland Exhibition Grounds, near Edinburgh (0541 500 044) pounds 36 today 1pm-6am