A LONG WEEK IN MUSIC, RIB-CRACKING AT RAGE, SCRAMBLE FOR THE STROKES AND MORE

IT feels like the longest week in music ever. From being conflicted listening to the beautiful tones of Hasidic reggae artist Matisyahu (but not so sure about his politics) at Dean Street Studios on Wednesday, to the politics-free zone at the front row for Usher’s special show at Koko (he was all about the ladies and the poses) on Friday, to feeling every rib in my body on the verge of cracking in the manic moshpit at Rage Against the Machine at Finsbury Park on Sunday, to the (failed) battle for tickets for The Strokes’ secret gig as Venison at Dingwalls last night. This is the place to be if you love music. And it’s not over yet. New Young Pony Club and fave band Hurts are at Dingwalls tonight (Thursday).

• There’s a timely appearance from Big Brother’s tantrum princess Nikki on Friday at The Monarch. We’re hearing it’s gonna be like Phoebe from Friends. Disaster/Car crash entertainment? Can't imagine you'll be able to tear your eyes away.

• Thousands crashed Dingwalls’ website in a desperate scramble for Strokes tickets. We tweeted this early – before most music press had got their acts together thanks to trusty local contacts – follow me @roisingadelrab

• This Teenage Cancer Trust Topshop Summer Bandstand picnic at Regent’s College (June 12) could be a winner. Charlotte Hatherley (ex-Ash), Chew Lips, Goldheart Assembly and Stricken City + DJ sets from New Young Pony Club, and Girlcore are on the bill. Bring a picnic as the whole area is transformed into one big picnic ground with games, rollerskating, egg and spoon races and sports day games.

• I confess I used to love this guy’s curly mop-top (remember Sandstorm, Walk Away and Alright?) – former Cast frontman and ex-bassist for The La’s John Power will be singing Cast hits at the Luminaire (June 17).