This Is Music @ Henry's Cellar Bar, 22 Feb

The This Is Music banner returns to give the faithful their February doses, boasting what, on paper at least, is a rather impressive line-up. Getting the ball rolling are The Aphrodisiacs (2/5) (well, two thirds of them at least), a band with several Peel sessions under their belt. A pleasant enough acoustic set never really takes off as they fail to capture the imagination of a half full Henry's.

And so the baton goes to Glaswegian post rockers Diamond Sea (2/5). And they carry it well initially. Their echoing guitars and fabricated beats promise much, however it becomes only too apparent that there is something missing. With an extra head or two and perhaps some synths, their sound could be greatly augmented. Instead, the abiding memory is a snail-paced 'cover' of RATM's Bombtrack, somewhat of an anti-climax.

The stage is set for somebody to inject some pace into the night, and hotly tipped Nottingham outfit The Lovvers (3/5) gleefully assume their position. There is no questioning the level of performance. Some superb breakneck finger tapping and a demoniacally energetic show from the frontman highlight why they are being touted for bigger things. It's just a shame they don't get to treat a larger audience tonight.

Bringing the night to a close are William Douglas and The Wheel (3/5). The persistent and welcome theme of variety is continued with a band that recalls aspects of The Eagles and The Kings of Leon in equal measure. The apparent influences are matched by obvious aspects of originality. Douglas' songwriting is distinctive, if not always consistent. Nonetheless, a fittingly eclectic finish to the evening. [Finbarr Bermingham]