WE take a look at Newport's music scene over the next week ... What is it with Newport and free, top quality gigs?

Alternative Twist has a blinder this week, with a veritable feast of quality acoustic acts playing by candlelight at Meze Lounge on Monday.

Headlining are London's Things In Herds, signed to Fence Records, the label that spawned King Creosote, James Yorkston and others.

Dealing in heart-wrenching slow core with a smattering of electronics, Things In Herds acclaimed debut album (available in Diverse, fact fans), is a slow-burning gem... late night music second to none.

Which, as it happens, is a good thing as they'll be on last. Well before that, Cwmbran duo and Meze favourites The Ash and the Oak will be ploughing a Will Oldham furrow, alongside Nick 'Elliott' Smith and the truly delightful Angie and the Bear, who throw a slew of world influences into their mix of cello backed upbeat nu-folk. And, yes, it is completely free!

My Little Murder, The Fall-out Theory, Foregone Conclusion, Haddonfield and The Amsterdam Scenario make up this week's Planet Red Rock Show line-up at Meze Lounge on Tuesday.

Plenty of live punk and metal action then, with rock and metal DJ's until 1am as per usual.

Doors are 6.30pm, and entry £3.50. All Planet Red gigs are 14+, so be sure to bring ID.

A great chance to see The Elephant Rescue Plan (formerly known as Headtest), for free this week, thanks to Deano at The Breeding Ground. With Wednesdays ever a popular night in the city, make sure you pop in to The Riverside Tavern for a quick one, or two, to start the night. Support comes from Eric, who will be on at 9pm.

Also on Wednesday, across the road, Mutilated Minglush bring Dignity Dies First, Losing Sun, The Threat and In Cold Depth to TJ's. Doors are 7.30pm and entry £4, or £3 with a flyer.

TJ's' Thursday line-up provides Killer Kings, Sixty and Souls playing the unsigned showcase. Entry is £3, or £2 with a flyer. Doors 7.30pm. Over at Meze on Thursday, Midlands funksters Cantaloop drop in for the Underground Freak Out.

Having toured regularly with The Fun Lovin' Criminals, as well as opening for hip hop pioneers De La Soul, Bentley Rhythm Ace, DJ Trevor Nelson and jazz pioneer Roy Ayers, the band have honed a professional and often frenetic live show. Mixing organic hip hop with good time 'nufunk', Cantaloop should set the dancefloor ablaze.

A cast of resident and guest DJs will be spinning the finest reggae, dub, alternative hip hop and drum and bass until 2.30am. Entry is free.