Ani DiFranco

National Concert Hall, Dublin Tomorrow 8pm 34.50 01-4170000

Ani DiFranco playing in the august surrounds of the NCH? Whatever next? While the venue might be unusually polished for DiFranco’s celebrated rough’n’ready techniques (and, perhaps, lacking in atmosphere for a gig of this nature), there’s no doubt about one thing: give her a stage and a venue and she’ll command your attention.

Now in her early 40s, Angela Maria DiFranco has been a feminist icon and beacon of independence since her late teens, giving voice to a variety of social, sexual and political concerns under the umbrella grouping of folk music. Yet her music references urban hip-hop and punk rather than Laurel Canyon sensibilities, which marks her out as a righteous voice for those that require one.

DiFranco comes to Ireland previewing material from her forthcoming album, Mariachi, and is always recommended. How the pristine nature of the NCH might detract from the overall atmosphere of the show remains to be seen.

Can't see that? Catch this

Nouvelle Vague Fri, Dublin