Great triple bill in two venues - what's not to like? First up there's promising newbies The Plea , followed by Lafaro - a band we hark on about so much you'd assume we're probably sick of them by now (we aren't). 

What's notable about tomorrow's Lafaro gig is that it'll be their first without legendary bassist Herb Magee (pictured), who quit after what's now regarded as one of the band's best ever shows - at Pigstock last weekend. While no one will ever properly replace Herb, it's pretty exciting that Cahir O'Doherty, lead singer with Fighting with Wire, is going to give it a crack for these two shows.

And then there's Ash. If you assume they're past their best at this stage, allow us to respecively disagree. The A-Z series, 26 singles released in a year (with a few blinding bonuses along the way) includes some of the best tracks they've ever recorded. If you think you know this band based on previous glories - think again. Or better still, hit up the Playhouse in Portrush or The Empire Belfast tomorrow night and you'll (hopefully) see exactly what I mean. 

Ash, Lafaro and The Plea play The Portrush Playhouse tonight (Tues 7) and The Belfast Empire tomorrow (Wed 8).