Somerset House Summer Series

The Courtyard of Somerset House is an idyllic, calming, escapist location for a concert on a summer's evening. As a breeze drifts in off the Thames you'll forget the city bustle outside and tune into some great music, surrounded by one of eighteenth century London's most spectacular buildings. So far nine of the ten acts have been confirmed for the annual Summer Series and it's shaping up to be quite a spectacle. Grace Jones, back with the excellent Hurricane, kicks off the season on 9 July followed by Midlands rockers The Enemy on 10 July. Britain's mouthy pop temptress Lily Allen will be in demand on 11 July, with an as-yet-unnamed act lined up for 12 July. Inspite of their terrible name, US prog-rock outfit The Mars Volta drop in on 13 July while Salford electro pop duo The Ting Tings play on 14 July. There are then performances from Australian six-piece breakbeat electronic rockers Pendulum on 15 July and mesmerising singer Bat For Lashes on 16 July before things calm down somewhat for the melodic Athlete on 17 July. Welsh psychedelic rock group Super Furry Animals provide the cherry on the cake with a closing concert on 18 July. Keep checking www.somersethouse.org.uk/music for the latest line-up additions and for ticket information.