POP: THE FIVE BEST GIGS

1

Sebadoh Tue

The pick of the NME Premier Award gigs at the Astoria, thanks to the headliner's new material. Elliott Smith is main support, plus Hefner and Quasi.

Astoria, London W (07-434 0403)

2

John Cale Trio tonight, tomorrow and Thur

Cale takes to the grand piano and guitar. See also Preview, p2-3.

St Davids Hall, Cardiff (0222 878444) tonight; Corn Exchange, Cambridge (0223 35785) tomorrow; Royal Festival Hall, London SE (07-960 4242) Thur

3

Mercury Rev Thur

Another choice NME Premier night headlined by the Rev, whose Deserter's Songs was the critic's fave of 98. Shack, Add N To X and Regular Fries support.

Astoria, London W (07-434 0403) Thur

4

They Might Be Giants Mon

Endearingly eccentric and offbeat New Yorkers return to the capital for a couple of shows that are sure to bring in longterm fans, baying for such favourites as "Birdhouse In Your Soul".

Garage, London N5 (07-344 0044) Mon & Sat 23 Jan

5

Mansun Fri

The best live band in Britain, according to Melody Maker readers, are supported by a trio of hopefuls: Gay Dad, Chicks, and Witness.

Astoria, London W (07-434 0403) Fri

FIVE POTENTIAL HITS OR MISSES

Corrs Safe and sugary sounds from the Irish outfit.

International Arena, Cardiff (0222 224488) Mon & Tue; Wembley Arena (08-902 0902) Thur & Fri

UNKLE UNKLE are unproven live, but Idlewild, Llama Farmers and Delakota should make for a good night.

Warwick Uni (0203 69096) tonight; Cardiff Uni (0222 224488) Mon; Bristol Uni (07 929 9008) Tue; Brookes Uni, Oxford (07-344 4040) Wed

Bluetones College-friendly indie boys.

Newport V3 Club (0633 250 600) Mon; Brookes Uni, Oxford (07-344 4040) Tue; Astoria, London W (07-434 0403) Wed

The Divine Comedy The clever band, plus Mark Eitzel.

Brixton Academy, London SW9 (07-77 2000) tonight

Garbage You either love them or hate them.

NEC, Birmingham (02-780 433) tomorrow; Rivermead, Reading (08 90 50) Tue; Wembley Arena (08-902 0902) Wed