The streets of NW1 are an adventure on any night - but the Camden Crawl really is a memorable musical trip. Established in 1995, this annual extravaganza has become a capital institution; gig-goers sport wristbands to gain entry to a relentless live bill across the area's famous venues.

'The Camden Crawl basically started because we wanted to let people check out cool underground bands, without the experience costing too much,' recalls co-founder Lisa Paulon. 'Nowadays, with all these issues of urban redevelopment, the location is still significant; we're highlighting how important Camden's musical past is in terms of its future.'

The event took a break in the late-1990s, during what Paulon describes as 'a low point for developing British indie rock musicians'. Happily, the local scene sparked up again, the Camden Crawl returned in 2005 and it's been on storming form ever since.

This year, the Crawl sprawls over two nights for the first time, with more than 80 bands (selected by an involved committee including Steve Lamacq and Queens Of Noize). And it offers a brilliantly increased choice.

There's no headliner as such, but there is a variety of acts. Among those involved are electro-rockers New Young Pony Club, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Brazilian ravers Bonde Do Role, dayglo punks Hadouken!, DIY raconteur Jack Penate, indie/rap storytellers Ali Love and Marvin The Martian, veteran Goths The Damned (Thursday only) and established hitmakers Travis (Friday only). The bands will be covering 15 hotspots including Koko, the Electric Ballroom, The Underworld and The Black Cap.

'We wanted to have more of a festival atmosphere this year,' says Paulon. 'There'll be competitions, daytime tours of Camden, exhibitions and surprise elements.'

Unexpected twists are a major part of the fun here. Previous Camden Crawls have featured rising stars including The Fratellis, Hard-Fi and Klaxons.

Given that these shows are in intimate venues, be prepared to divert from your planned route - you'll probably stumble across a fantastic new band.

'These gigs are seminal in a band's history,' agrees Tahita Bulmer, New Young Pony Club's frontwoman and an ardent Camden Crawl fan.

'The only thing I can compare the Camden Crawl to is Austin's SXSW festival - everybody's running around, a bit pissed, trying to catch as many bands as possible in one night. The energy levels create this massive roller coaster of craziness - it's like being carried along on a comet.'

True enough, it's hard to predict the directions you'll take; just enjoy the camaraderie and new discoveries. This is always an irresistible excuse to get lost in music.

Thurs and Fri, various Camden venues NW1, noon to 4am, day pass £26.50, two-day pass £45 (two-day pass and Fri returns only).

Tel: 0871 220 0260. www.thecamdencrawl.com