MARCO'S off for a course of intensive colonic irrigation or something this week, leaving me in the, er, driving seat.

Do you know what I'm going to do? I'm going to come over all eclectic. This wee resum will include world music, jazz, blues and lullabies.

Now imagine, if you will: you're a world-renowned bassist (yep, I'm really imagining hard now) who has worked with jazz giants like Chick Corea for many years, and you're looking for a venue for the world premiere of your new CD, to be filmed for a forthcoming DVD.

Where do you choose? Carnegie Hall? The Millennium Dome?

No, no, you choose Bridport Arts Centre, of course.

The bassist in question is Avashai Cohen, and he's chosen the arts centre to launch his new CD At Home after the rapturous reception his band received on their debut concert here last year.

Avishai is joined onstage by keys player Sam BarSheshet and percussionist Mark Giulliana.

We're told that Avishai's new album continues his journey deeper into the jazz idiom, blending ancient eastern-influenced sounds with breath-taking contemporary jazz styles, while walking the firmly balanced line between accesibility and innovation.

Who are we to argue?

The concert takes place tonight and tickets are available from the art centre box office on 01308 424204 and priced £10, or £8 for art centre members.

I promised you blues, and this comes in the form of Bill Sheffield, Dave Saunders and Dino Baptiste's visit to Mr Kyps, Parkstone, Poole tonight.

USA bluesman Sheffield has played with the likes of Big Mama Thornton, John Lee Hooker, T-Bone Walker, Big Joe Turner, George 'Harmonica' Smith and the legendary Muddy Waters in his time.

Saunders was the bassist with award-winning UK blues band The Producers, and piano wiz Baptiste cut his teeth with Dana Gillespie, Otis Grand, Paul Jones and The Blues Band and others. Entry is £6 tonight, enquiries to 01202 748945.

There's always room for a first here at Live! land, and it comes in the form of the visit of Simon Mayor and Hilary James tomorrow (Thornford Village Hall, Pound Rd, Sherborne, box office 01935 873762, tickets £6/£4 concessions, doors open 7.30pm).

This vocal/mandolin duo's new album is a collection of traditional bedtime children's songs and classical tunes.

They'll be joined on this occasion by Frank Kilkelly (guitar), Phil Fentimen (guitar & double bass), Alan Whetton (soprano saxophone) and Simon Price (drums).

It's a remarkable coincidence, really, because I, too, am working on a collection of late night songs.

Track listing so far includes You're my Best Mate, Honest, Who's Nicked My Front Door? and It's Not What You Think, Darling, Honesht.

Release date will follow the hearing.