Alex Lloyd has highlights of the latest Darklands event...

FOR those of you who like nothing better than a bit of rock, Certificate 18 in Gillygate is the place to be this weekend.

Monthly Goth night Darklands opens its 2005 line-up with a Heroes and Villains-themed event tonight.

Those attending are invited to come dressed as their favourite hero or villain, factual or fictional, and there will be prizes such as DVDs, CDs, drinks and T-shirts for the best.

Music will come courtesy of Darklands' resident DJ Jared, with Andy C of Black Veil, playing old and new Goth, deathrock, industrial, darkwave, electro, punk and alternative.

The event runs from 7pm to 1am, and entry is £3. Visit www.darklands.org.uk for more information.

Once you've recovered your strength, head back down to the pub for Sunday's tsunami disaster fundraiser, which starts at 3pm.

For just £2, you can enjoy the sounds of Dangerlust, Chloe, Cardboard Radio, Conway Story, Standing in the Shadows, and Limeshark, who are all giving their time and talent for free.

Once the bands have done their thing, there will be an open mic night from 9pm, giving aspiring superstars a chance to make like Bono and do their bit for charity. Food is included in the entry price so it's a bit of a bargain. For more information, contact Certificate 18 on 01904 627679 or visit www.certificate18.co.uk

Blokes with guitars is not everyone's cup of tea, however, so if you'd like to do your bit to help the fund-raising efforts, tickets are still on sale for the Asia Needs You raffle at bars and restaurants across the city.

There are some amazing prizes to be won so look out for the distinctive blue posters when you are out and about this weekend and try your luck. Tickets are £1 each and the draw will take place on January 30 in Kennedy's caf-bar.

Updated: 15:46 Thursday, January 13, 2005