HEATHER Small, the inevitable David Essex and fellow Seventies' veterans Smokie are all new additions to York Barbican Centre's concert diary.

Small, the M People lead singer, will play the Barbican on June 15 (7.30pm), promising a new look and a preview of new material in the company of a five-piece band likely to feature saxophonist Snake Davis. On her short tour, Small will be combining new numbers and a few surprises with an "eclectic mix" of jazz and soul standards such as The Way You Wear Your Hat and Private Number.

Bradford's Smokie return to the Barbican on October 18; David Essex, who never lets a year go by without playing York, is back on October 25. All three concerts start at 7.30pm, and tickets cost £20 each for Heather Small and David Essex; £16 and £14 for Smokie. Box office: 01904 656688.

Updated: 09:46 Friday, April 11, 2003