Since the disappointing fragmentation of the unworldly Cocteau Twins, Robin Guthrie, whose weightless guitar and generous production work helped define not only that band but much of the British independent scene of the 80s, has taken a meandering route to his current position as confident solo artist. Now settled in France, Guthrie is doing what many Cocteaus fans had been hoping for (short of a reunion), regularly setting albums of his beautiful, aqueous ambience adrift into the world. Mark Gardener (ex-Ride) supports.

Second Opinion
If shoegaze is your thing then there really is no better place to go in February than Sticky Mike’s. Robin Guthrie, the Cocteau Twins legendary founder and producer, is bringing his new project – aptly named The Robin Guthrie Trio – to the UK for the first time, performing his instrumental releases and tracks from his new album ‘Fortune’. Support comes from the floppy-haired pin-up of 90s teen dreams Mark Gardener, formerly of Ride, playing songs from his extensive back catalogue. Although the floppy hair is sadly no more, expect to hear some genre definining Ride classics, as well as his later solo stuff. Brighton’s very own version of shoegaze, Bliss, have also just been added to the bill, so expect to have a sore neck from looking downwards for the large majority of the night. (Anna Thomas)

Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar, Weds 20th Feb 2013