pick of the week

The Flaming Lips

Sleepy-headed loons continue their creep up on the English-speaking peoples, with Papas Fritas and Elevate in support. See review below.

Tonight, London ULU (0171-323 5481); Sat, Manchester University (0161- 832 1111); Sun, Glasgow Garage (0141-226 4679)

Sparkle Horse

Hotly tipped alternative country-rockers.

Sat, London Splash Club at Water Rats (0171-278 3879)

Mike Gibbs & the Creative Jazz Orchestra

Rare appearance by the Zimbabwean composer-arranger in tandem with top sticksman Peter Erskine, doing stuff by Charles Ives and Mark-Anthony Turnage, among others.

Wed, London Queen Elizabeth Hall (171-960 4242)

COMING SOON

Ramones

For the very last time, the boys spoon themselves into sneakers and ultra- narrow jeans to buzz the Brits. Gabba gabba sniffle.

Feb 3, London Brixton Academy (0171-924 9999)