The guide gives a critical view of what's hot for the coming week.

*Brighton Ska Festival, Concorde 2, Brighton, Sunday, July 16 - Too Many Crooks and politically-motivated seven piece Once Over headline this ten-strong show. Too Many Crooks formed after a Bad Manners gig in Brighton and are currently recording their fourth album, due out this summer. The festival also includes 2nd Time Lucky, Fisticuffs, The Meow Meows, Just Called Charlie, 7 Day Conspiracy, Big Dance, Sacless Jac and The Scat Cats. Starts 3pm-10.30pm, tickets £7.50. Call 01273 673311.

Forward Russia, Concorde 2, Brighton, Monday, July 17
- Floor-filling disco punk-funk with a post-rock twist is the signature of this Leeds four-piece. The band, who were heavily tipped by the NME last year, have toured the country with their clever stuff. Support slots have been alongside The Editors, Biffy Clyro and The Subways as well as festival appearances at Reading and Leeds 2006 are in the bag. Starts 7.30pm, costs £7. Call 01273 673311.

Chas And Dave, Concorde 2, Brighton, Thursday, July 20
- The cheeky, ageing, cockney sparrows are making the most of their Rolf-like ironic resurgence in popularity. The old masters of the pub singalong, synonymous with beer, boots, braces and beards, will be stomping out some of their massive hits. Fingers crossed the barrow boys play Snooker Loopy, Rabbit and Gertcha. Starts 8pm, tickets £12.50. Call 01273 673311