Malcolm Middleton @ The Liquid Room

Together as Arab Strap, Aiden Moffat and Malcolm Middleton were Scottish music's greatest duo (don't give me any of your Proclaimers nonsense). Now apart, they're proving just as irrepressible. We gave the latest of Middleton's three solo albums - A Brighter Beat - a glowing review back in February, even going as far as suggesting the downbeat singer had songs which "border[ed] on joyous." His first two solo albums weren't half bad either, even if they were melancholy in the extreme. On this UK mini-tour, expect Middleton to try out some of his new songs . He may currently be recording an "acoustic(ish) mini(ish)" new album, but he will be backed by a full band. (Ally Brown)