Pouring forth: Beastie Boys have finally settled on a release date for their new album. Hot Sauce Committee Pt 2 will be out in early May.

Neil note: Although most tickets for Neil Hannon and co's JD Set gig on April 1st at Dublin's Button Factory have gone, there'll be a limited number at the venue from 4pm on the day.

Play date: Tickets for three Scottish Opera performances of Verdi's Rigoletto at the Grand Canal Theatre (June 21st, 23rd and 25th) are on sale.

New light: Break out the earplugs – The Darkness are back for a series of gigs this summer, along with a rumoured new album later in the year.