Monday 14/04/03 Hokum Clones, Aidan Smith @ The Magnet, Liverpool

Singer songwriter Aidan Smith delivered a breezy acoustic set. His appearance at the venue coincided with his mini album, 'At Home With Aidan Smith', released on the same day. Signed to Twisted Nerve, Smith appeared last month on Granada TV's Made In The Northwest programme. His songs were full of ironic twists. One song in particular, slagging off manufactured bands, was an obvious crowd pleaser.

Hokum Clones were of course the main event. Their homecoming gig was eagerly anticipated. Opening with Leadbelly's 'Rock Island Line', the acoustic blues duo were also recently featured on Made In The Northwest. They performed a sometimes-excellent set, which was cut short due to technical difficulties (a snapped string). Nevertheless their performance was ecstatically received and was probably their best sounding gig in ages. The set could be only criticised for how brief it was.

They performed their next single 'Breakin' From The Jailhouse Blues', which is released through Rough Trade records on 28th April.