Snow Patrol will be in the US, while Fionn Regan will more than likely be in Australia.

Confident lad, isn't he?

Fab-ruary at last WITH January proving to be a desert of a month in terms of gigs, February sees a marked change with awesome classic rock band the Hold Steady being the latest to be confirmed to play in Dublin - in the Temple Bar Music Centre on 27 February.

Alt. country stalwarts Richmond Fontaine have also confirmed three Irish dates after the release of their latest album on 9 February.

College rock ENTRIES are being accepted for the third Bank of Ireland National Student Music Awards. A panel of industry heads will choose 12 demos and break them up into three heats. The bands will be invited to play live at the regional heats in Dublin, Cork and Galway. The overall winner will take home a prize in excess of Euro10,000 as well as legal consultation, an interview in Hot Press and a support slot with an established band.

Students should send demos to NSMA, Suite 49, 184 Lr Rathmines Rd, Dublin 6 before 15 February.