Now that the question is no longer when they graduate form Rockwood to Mercury Lounge (Saturday at 7p), it is what will Darlingside, a mesmerizing mix of indie rock and strings, do now they've got there. Their 2010 EP is addictive and the new songs show no rust so I expect it will be excellent.  Secret Ingredient: the lead vocalist could lead Average White Band

Monday – The Studio At Webster Hall – Maps And Atlases – The best indie album of the year already under their built, this is s close to a must see as you'll get if you have an iota of cool in your swagger.

Tuesday – Slash – Webster Hall – Small club appearance by the GNR guitarist

Wednesday – The Polyphonic Spree – Didja read Alyson's review a month back? See if this rock everyman is as good as she claims

Thursday – Thrice – I saw about ten years ago with my nephew. He loved their pro-hardcore sound. I liked it.

Saturday – One Direction – Because they're beautiful, that's why.

Sunday – The Kooks – Northern Lights -  Helen will be happy!