Yes, yes - the dreaded 'c'-word has appeared during early February, but with good reason. Celebrated blues 'n' rock pianist Jools Holland has just announced a formidable tower of concerts throughout the latter third of the year, including some during the run-up to the Festive season.

Having already secured a few festival slots at Larmer Tree and Hampton Court Palace during the summer (as well as a few still-available regional stop-offs during May - July with Sandie Shaw), the revered entertainer will take his Rhythm 'n Blues Orchestra on the road from 29th October until 22nd December, nearly two months of ivory-tinkling! He'll also have a new special guest for the autumn/winter season - the inimitable Shane MacGowan, the Poguesmeister!

His first stop is Cambridge on 30th October before heading to the 'usual suspects' plus Southend (1st/2nd November), Watford (16th), Stoke (23rd) and Brentwood in Essex (11th December). There are a handful of Scottish gigs and a double at the Royal Albert Hall during November.

Tickets are available now and average around £35 depending on location.

In addition, Holland will also place a concert at Kew Gardens as part of the Kew The Music season on 7th July. He will present Ruby Turner as his guest and tickets will go on sale at 9am this Friday (£36).