There was a collective sigh of disappointment here in The Guide's corner of Argus House when Matt Hales, aka Aqualung, postponed his Brighton gig at Christmas due to commitments across the pond.

(He's just been signed to US label Columbia Records and is now focused on conquering America).

But the time has finally come for him to play here again and if his 2002 gig at the same venue is anything to go by, it will be well worth the wait.

Soon to be touring in support of David Gray on his Stateside tour next month, Aqualung has a big adventure ahead. There's sure to be an air of hushed anticipation and calm before the storm of international touring at tonight's intimate show - his first UK appearance for over a year. Aqualung's music, which first came to fame as the soundtrack to a car advert, is well-suited to the atmospheric Duke's.

Since then, he's had a baby, recorded two albums and recently released Strange And Beautiful in the US, a double-disc compilation of the best of both albums. He's also just recorded a new song called Outside - faster and more epic than his usual fare, you can expect it to be aired for the first time in public tonight.

Matt will be playing piano and electric guitar together with a four-piece band which includes his muso brother, Ben.

Starts 11pm, tickets cost £12. Call 01273 602503. Feb 17 is sold out.