1 FRANK BLACK
Taking a brief break from the Pixies, Black Francis turns back into Frank Black, with a show that coincides with the excellent 93-03. Shepherds Bush Empire, W12 (www.shepherds-bush-empire.co.uk 0870 7712000), Sun
2 ANIMAL COLLECTIVE
The ever-shifting, exploratory nature of their music might make New York’s Animal Collective difficult to categorise. It is, however, precisely what makes them so rewarding. KOKO, Camden High Street, NW1 (www.koko.uk.com 0870 4325527), Tues
3 BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE
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Since their appearance in the rockumentary Dig! Anton Newcombe’s lysergic psych- combo have seen interest in their work rival that of their bête noire the Dandy Warhols. Carling Academy Islington, Parkfield Street, N1 (www.islington-academy.co.uk 0870 7712000), Sat
4 MIKA
Having dealt with a potentially tricky audience at Glastonbury, the creator of Grace Kellyand Love Today plays in more hospitable environs. Somerset House Courtyard, The Strand, WC2 (www.somersethouse.org.uk/ music 0870 1451120), Tues
5 LILY ALLEN
Almost a year after playing her first shows, Allen brings her streetwise serenades back to the city that spawned them. Somerset House Courtyard, details above, Mon
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