The Barbra Streisand of hip hop, Jay Z, returns to the stage at two London shows, volatile rockers The Cult play the Brixton Academy and guitar-wielding pups are gearing up to release their third album...

Jay-Z
Wembley Arena
He's the Barbra Streisand of hip hop, announcing his retirement and then doing nothing of the sort. Shawn Carter clearly can't resist being acclaimed as the greatest rapper alive, and returns to the stage to soak up more applause at two London shows, at Wembley this weekend and at the Albert Hall, a first for a rap star, on Wednesday. (0870 060 0870). Sun 24 Sep, 6.30pm.

The Cult
Brixton Academy, SW9
The volatile rockers, big in the Eighties, have reunited again since Ian Astbury's spell impersonating Jim Morrison in the 21st Century Doors. Guitarist Billy Duffy is back in the band too. Expect them to concentrate on classics such as She Sells Sanctuary rather than much new material. (0870 771 2000). Tonight, 7pm.

Mogwai
Royal Albert Hall, SW7
Glasgow's post-rock figureheads take their serious sonic meanderings into new territory with this plush show in the unlikely surrounds of the Albert Hall. They're not the most interesting band to watch, but at least you'll have a comfy seat this time. (020 7589 8212). Tonight, 6.45pm.

McFly
Wembley Arena
The guitar-wielding pups are gearing up to release their third album, Motion in the Ocean, which boy band statistics suggest makes them extremely likely to split up by Christmas. However, unlike forefathers Busted, they don't seem to have an unsettled member who takes himself too seriously, so maybe their teenage fans can continue hyperventilating for a while longer yet. (0870 060 0870) Fri 22, Sat 23 Sept

Alice Russell
Jazz Cafe, NW1
Stunning Brighton soul singer best known for her work with the Quantic Soul Orchestra and willingness to drape her vocals over edgy dance beats. (020 7916 6060). Tonight-Sat 23 Sep, 7pm.