The Long Blondes @ The Liquid Room, 14 Feb

It may be Valentine's night, but that doesn't stop lead singer Kate Jackson from throwing cold water over any young lovers in the audience on Once and Never Again: "You're only nineteen for god's sake… you don't need a boyfriend." Despite its anti-romantic sentiments, the bounce-along pop song is easily the standout track amongst a fairly tepid, indie-by-numbers set from the Sheffield quintet. If Skinnys were doled out for style alone, Ms Jackson and co would surely have the top rating all sewn up; what with the pencil skirts, neckties and almost indecently short hotpants in evidence. But behind all the coquettish moves and icy glamour lies a lack of substance that could prevent the Long Blondes from making a wider impact. [Barry Jackson]