NEXT Friday night sees the return to Fibbers of York's prodigal son, Chris Helme. As a member of The Yards, he fronts their melodic Velvet Underground-meets-Buffalo Springfield indie-rock, but this is a rare chance to see him play in an acoustic solo capacity.

Helme first came to attention in 1996, when The Stone Roses' legendary guitarist John Squire discovered him busking outside Woolworths in Coney Street, and promptly made him the frontman of his post-Roses band The Seahorses. The band received warm reviews, as well as chart success with the singles Love Is The Law and Blinded By The Sun. They toured extensively, including dates with Oasis, but friction between Squire and Helme led to a split after only one album.

Helme continued, and continues, to tour as an acclaimed solo singer-songwriter, but two years ago named his backing band The Yards, and began promoting them as a full band.

Several members were recruited from around York, including ex-members of Shed Seven and the Happy Mondays, and they last year released the well-received single The Devil Is Alive and Well In DC. Earlier this year, they toured with Arthur Lee's Love, and are now finalising their imminent self-titled debut album.

Next Friday's gig will see Helme previewing songs from this release, as well as the pick of his solo work, and some of his legendary blues-influenced cover versions. The intimate nature of the show will give him the chance to interact with the audience and employ his trademark self-deprecating charm, as well as showcasing his powerful Buckley-esque voice and Van Morrison-influenced playing ability. This promises to be an extraordinary night.

Advance tickets are still available at £5 from the venue, on 0870 9070 999, or via the website, www.fibbers.co.uk.

Updated: 15:36 Thursday, August 26, 2004