Peter Doherty

The Academy, Dublin Wed 9pm 28 0818-719300; Nerve Centre, Derry Thurs 9pm £24/£22 048-71260562

These are rescheduled dates for the former Libertines and Babyshambles singer, who seems to spend as much time in court as he does on stage. Doherty is also a dab hand at courting controversy, a state of affairs that sees him take up space in tabloids on a regular basis. His music, then, has taken a back seat over the past while, which is unfortunate, as on a good day and in a good song Doherty is more than capable of coming close to the greatness that his fervidly loyal fanbase claim for him.

On stage, meanwhile, Doherty remains an infuriating presence, his sloppy blend of boho rock and louche demeanor willing the audience to dislike him when really we’d just prefer to cheer him on – if only he gave us half a chance.

Can't see that? Catch this: Miracle Fortress Sun, Dublin