First Call, Last Call

First Call

THE MELODIOUS, fluffy pop of Saint Etienne (right), with its retro, Swinging Sixties tunes and Petula Clark-like vocals, is easy on the ear and guaranteed to prompt happy hormones. Saint Etienne have been around for ages, give or take the odd break, and have proved influential for newer, some would say lesser groups, such as Dubstar and The Cardigans. Upbeat and escapist music.

The Forum, Highgate Rd, London NW5 (0171-344 0044) 17 Dec

Last Call

ALTHOUGH JOSEPH Haydn's The Creation was originally set to both English and German texts, the English version was criticised from the outset. On hearing it, the poet Anne Hunter was determined to write a version that did more justice to Hadyn's sublime music. The St Ceciliatide International Festival of Music will present this recently discovered translation in an inaugural performance by the Fiori Musiali ensemble. It marks the bicentenary of the first performance of The Creation.

The St Ceciliatide International Festival of Music, St James, Piccadilly, London W1 (bookings on 01327 361380) Fri