FOR those of us planning on refreshing our collection of folk music CDs at this time of year, I notice there are a few tasty treats currently making waves out there.

This includes the latest by new Scottish star Karine Polwart, which even the mainstream press is picking up on; plus new offerings by Dick Gaughan, Seth Lakeman, Show of Hands, Chris While and Julie Matthews and Jim Moray, not to mention a duet by Kate Rusby and Ronan Keating that is surely destined to polarise opinions across the nation in the weeks to come.

But if, like me, live folk music is more to your taste, an expedition tonight, either to Bishop Auckland Town Hall to hear Vin Garbutt and The Bill Elliott band, or ace bluesman Roger Sutcliffe at Skelton's Duke William, are both worthwhile.

Saturday's choice is between the great Kieran Halpin at Washington's Davy Lamp, or the top class Canadian folk/country band The Bills at Gateshead's Sage.

Monday's offering at The Sage is a rare concert by the amazing South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who made such a memorable contribution to Paul Simon's Graceland album 20 years ago, while just across the River Tyne, Jim Bainbridge will be delving into his vast repertoire of songs and tunes at The Bridge Hotel. A welcome appearance by fine singer Jill Pidd at Birtley RAOB club rounds off the week on Wednesday. Meanwhile, don't forget that Saturday is a "Day of Harmony" at Saltburn's Spa Hotel, with a fantastic line-up of vocal talent, including Dave Webber and Anni Fentiman, The Wilsons, Bill Whaley and Dave Fletcher.

I'm at Jezfolk@aol. com and only too happy to include your folk event in this column at the drop of an email, a modest bribe and a sycophantic word in my ear.