Pete Doherty at the reformed Bandwagon

Not technically a venue, it was a night run at Zanzibar by The Bandits.
One of the first of the current crop of great Mersey bands to be dubbed 'Cosmic Scouse', The Bandits met at school - West Derby Comp - two Bandits in the same year as two from Tramp Attack and three of the Zutons.
A scene was born.
Soon bands from across Merseyside - and beyond - were fighting to play a slot at the Bandwagon. Running from 2001 to 2005 once a month at the Zanzibar Club, and showcasing everything from Blues to Hip Hop, Reggae to new wave, the Bandwagon also enjoyed success abroad hosting nights in New York, Paris, Tokyo and Osaka.
The Coral, The Zutons, Tramp Attack and The Stands all played regular gigs. Noel Gallagher even popped in for a jam with his favourite Scouse bands, and the young Libertines played a blistering gig.
And next saturday, the infamous Bandwagon returns for a one-off Christmas special with an equally infamous headline act - Pete Doherty.
Sadly more famous for his lifestyle than his music, Pete plays a good live set. Crunching along with verve and bounce, his idiosyncratic singing, typically sweet sixties-esque guitar, and the tight, crisp percussion heavy sound will fit perfectly with the Bandwagon vibe.
And the legendary night was also known for throwing up the most surprising guests ,so expect the unexpected - it's going to be a night to remember.
The Bandwagon Christmas Party - featuring Pete Doherty and Friends - takes place at Carling Academy Liverpool on Saturday December 27. Tickets £16 advance from the Academy box office.