Ani DiFranco
Sarah Johnson watches American singer-songwriter and feminist Ani DiFranco play an energetic and immensely enjoyable set at the Union Chapel in London
Broken Social Scene
In an evening that involved show-stealing audience participation, Sarah Johnson at the HMV Forum in London watches Canadian group Broken Social Scene play an extensive and riveting set of indie rock
Akron/Family
Despite having recently lost founder member Ryan Vanderhoof and now being reduced to a three piece, Sarah Johnson at the London ICA finds New York experimental folk act Akron/Family having lost none of their spontaneity, but also having an increased tightness
Joe Gideon and the Shark
At a homecoming gig at the Borderline in London at the end of a British tour to promote their debut album 'Harum Scarum', Sarah Johnson watches sibling duo Joe Gideon and the Shark completely amaze their audience with their unique brand of alternative rock
Miscellaneous
On the second day of the Lovebox Weekender festival at Victoria Park in London, Sarah Johnson enjoys visually spectacular sets from both Goldfrapp and, in their only British show of the year, the Flaming Lips
Silver Jews
At the London ULU, Sarah Johnson sees Nashville alt. country act the Silver Jews play an electric set, but nevertheless finding themselves being overshadowed by their support, beer-spraying Israelite trio Monotonix
Shortwave Set
At a showcase gig to promote their second album, 'Replica Sun Machine', Sarah Johnson watches distinctive electronic folk trio the Shortwave Set, despite their stage show involving some very complex-looking technology, play a flawless set
Goldfrapp
At the Newcastle Academy Sarah Johnson sees Goldfrapp on top form play a superb set, which is equally matched by support act, eccentric electronic folks rockers the Shortwave Set.
Miscellaneous
London-based trio Stoner have elements, among others, of both Led Zeppelin and Jeff Buckley. At a sadly unattended show in Carlisle, Sarah Johnston watches them rise above the occasion and play a superb set