Pop: THE FIVE BEST GIGS

1

Neil Finn tonight & Wed

More dates from the always reliable ex-Crowded House leader promoting his Try Whistling This album, with support from London band, Arnold. Regent, Ipswich (0473 28480); Dome, Brighton (0273 709709)

2

Manic Street Preachers Mon & Tue

The Welsh chartoppers end this leg of a sell-out tour which reconvenes in December. Mogwai support. Trentham, Stoke (05 929000); Winter Gardens, Margate (0843 296)

3

Eels Thur

Opening date on a short tour from the quirky Californians promoting their second album, Electro-Shock Blues and the "Last Stop: This Town" single. Civic Hall, Wolverhampton (0902 552 2)

4

Arab Strap Mon

Occasionally brilliant and poignant Scots whose live performances are sometimes erratic.

Queen Elizabeth Hall, London SE (07-960 4242)

5

Simply Red tonight, Sun, Tue, Wed & Thur

Mick Hucknall and band conclude their short residency, playingin what is for them an intimate environment. Lyceum Theatre, London WC (07-656 802)

FIVE SISTA'S NOT TO BE MISSED

Lilith Fair The US showcase women artists is here for a one-off show, with Sarah McLachlan, Sinead O'Connor and others. See Preview, page 3

Royal Albert Hall, London SW7 (07-589 822) 23 Sept

Astrid The former singer from Goya Dress goes solo promoting her fine debut album.

Mars, London W (07-439 4655) 2 Sept

Paradise Motel Fragile and occasionally dark musical textures from New Zealand, fronted by former opera singer, Merida Sussex.

Borderline, London W (07-734 2095) 24 Sept

Lisa Germano The 4AD label's gifted multi-instrumentalist opens for Eels with her personal songs. Civic Hall, Wolverhampton (0902 5522) 24 Sept Spice Girls These shows sold out ages ago, but if it's your thing, you can see it live on pay-per-view TV. Wembley Stadium (08-902 0902) tonight and Sun