CULT favourites Cardiacs are coming to play Sheffield for the first time in a very long time.

They’ve been name-checked as an influence by the likes of Blur, Mr. Bungle, Radiohead, Super Furry Animals, Clor and Oceansize.

Best described as an avant-garde fusion of psychedelia, punk and pop, their incendiary live show will be augmented by the addition of two percussionists and three extra singers to the line-up. They play the Boardwalk on November 19. They will also play Manchester Academy 3 on November 21.

For tickets, ring 08709 913913 or go to http://www.alive.co.uk/tickets

Rufus Wainwright is heading north to showcase his talents in Sheffield and Manchester.

He will play Sheffield City Hall on October 19 and Manchester Apollo on October 18.

He hits the stage after a successful year, including a headline set at Glastonbury, collaborations with a plethora of stars and celebrities and the release of his latest album Release The Stars. For tickets, go to www.alive.co.uk/tickets or ring 08709 913913.