Having shelled out for MP’s to have moats cleaned, state-of-the-art Scandinavian duck islands installed and mortgages on phantom properties paid, it’s now time to spend hard earned cash on something worthwhile. So, with no expense spared, here are some of the Cambridge gig highlights (and lowlights) for this month………..

For those stuck in the 1970’s, UFO offer an escape route from any semblance of today’s reality - playing The Junction, 10th June (that’s 2009). Also at The Junction this month, De La Soul – late eighties hip-hop innovators and likely lad Jamie T.

There are one or two too many tribute acts around this month – Boot Led Zeppelin and Think Floyd being the guilty parties/pleasures. Save you money and go and see something original instead…which should mean going along to see fearsomely independent trio William, who make a welcome return to Cambridge playing The Portland Arms. Also at The Portland this month are The Joy Formidable and Pulled Apart By Horses.

Of the local acts playing, the highlight is surely The Tupolev Ghost and their giant slabs of post hardcore goodness, again at The Portland, on the 8th June along with Wintermute.

For the more death metal-minded, Nikkrosis and Diminished 5th play in Cambridge. Whilst The Man On The Moon hosts the May Brawl, featuring Fury UK and Perish In Flames amongst others.

Full listings can be seen at http://www.nowitson.co.uk

…….now if Douglas Hogg MP was to claim £5 to go and see William at The Portland Arms 17th June, I think we’d all agree that was a valid and legitimate expense.