The lowdown on the best live music in London this weekend...

BROKEN SOCIAL SCENE
Where: Shepherd's Bush Empire
When: Friday, May 23
Tickets: £16
www.myspace.com/brokensocialscene
Canadian band Broken Social Scene are in a league of their own. With 19 members, some of which play in other groups or have solo projects, it's hard to keep track of who does what. But as a collective, the Juno Award winning group works well. With unusual structures and orchestral sounds their songs are unique. Of course, it is only live that you can experience their true instrumental potential.

GLORIA GAYNOR
Where: Shaw Theatre
When: Friday, May 23
Tickets: £40
www.gloriagaynor.com
I Will Survive...ring any bells? This is the song that cemented Gloria Gaynor's legacy in the music industry. Love it or hate it, it's still going strong nearly 30 years since its release. The soul diva's evening at The Shaw Theatre will include some of her older as well as more recent material. The temptation to dance will be irresistible so get your finest glad rags on.

THE WOMBATS
Where: Royal Albert Hall
When: Friday, May 23
Tickets: £14-£16
www.myspace.com/brokensocialscene
In an attempt to attract a more youthful audience to the Albert Hall, The Wombats will headline this Friday. The trio will become the first act to take advantage of the new Albert Sessions Initiative. Under the scheme the venue, more commonly home to classical concerts, will halve its rental fee for bands if they agree to cap the price of tickets. The Liverpudlians have gone from strength to strength lately with sold out shows and a Top 20 album.

SYD LAWRENCE ORCHESTRA
Where: Beck Theatre
When: Saturday, May 24
Tickets: £15.50-£16.50
www.syd-lawrence-orchestra.com
Founded in 1967 by trumpeter and arranger Syd Lawrence, this orchestra is accustomed to putting on a great show. Renowned for its blend of big band swing and classic dance music, the repertoire ranges from Glen Miller to Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. A grand night out.

MARK KNOPFLER
Where: Royal Albert Hall
When: Sunday, May 25
Tickets: £15.50-£16.50
www.markknopfler.com
Mark Knopfler is best-known as the lead guitarist and vocalist for Dire Straits but has continued, with much success, to record and produce albums as a solo artist. As one of the most respected guitarists in the industry he will bring good old-fashioned rock and blues to the Albert Hall.