CALLING all unsigned bands! Yes, you over there!

Remember that '90s band The Beautiful South? You know, that one that did all those catchy easy-on-the-ear pop wonders such as 'Rotterdam', 'Don't Marry Her' and 'Thingy'.

Well, they're coming to Walthamstow in February 2010. But, more excitedly, they're looking for a local label-less group or solo act to support them. Smashing.

The band – who are now called 'The New Beautiful South' in light of a few new members they've picked up along the way – have teamed up with E17-based Red Onion Dance Studios to launch a competition to find someone to do the honours during their gig on Saturday February 13 at Walthamstow Assembly Hall.

Acts of all sizes and genres can apply, but they must write and perform their own music – so no Robbie Williams covers, OK?

Full details of the competition are set to be announced later this month, but I just couldn't wait to tell you, so here we are. That info, of course, might be published in this column when I get it. Maybe.

But let's not get ahead of ourselves. It's all about living in the now – that's what my history teacher always used to tell me.

This Sunday (November 15) sees another monthly show at the tiny but atmosphere-soaked North Star pub in Leytonstone, organised by those What's Cookin' guys.

Headliners are the Malingerers, who play blue, country and rock n' roll. Support comes from the bluegrass-lovers the Jolenes. The show starts at 6pm.

While next Wednesday (November 18) The Sheepwalk just round the corner hosts the country-rock stylings of The Barker Band. Be there for 9pm.

Waltham Abbey Folk Club presents another singaround night on Monday (November 16) for just £1.50.

The Plough Inn is the scene for a night from E17 Jazz this Thursday (November 12) with a show from Simon Golding's Rough Ramblers band, along with some help from the Sarah Weller band.

Friday the 13th down the Plough sees a show from the lovely folk duo Playing Rapunzel.

Sunday (November 15) sees Walthamstow Folk Club present a performance from young duo the infectiously good Askew Sisters. Entry is £6 or £5 for concessions. Gets going at 7.30pm.

At the Standard in Walthamstow on Thursday (November 12) four unsigned rock groups including JB3, Hindley, Members of Me and Reachback all take to the stage.

Entry is £5 with a band flyer, £6 without, and doors open around 8pm.

Friday (November 13) sees a show from tribute act R U Experienced. Entry is £9 and doors are at around 8pm.

On Saturday (November 14) the venue presents another tribute group, Bootleg Blondie. You can have a gas with them from 8pm, with tickets costing £9.

Got a gig? Let me know bro - email Sound Advice at dbinns@london.newsquest.co.uk