Cud? Didn’t they used to be one of the most distinctive and genuinely entertaining indie acts to emerge in the pre-Britpop days? They still are! What’s more, they’re playing Sunderland in early September.

While many of their contemporaries leaned rather too heavily into shoegaze introspection or lad-rock bravado, Cud carved out a singular path defined by art-school eccentricity, funk-inflected basslines, and a sharp, satirical wit. Now – a mere few decades on – they remain a vital live proposition because they offer something increasingly rare on the modern touring circuit: high-energy performances that refuse to take anything too seriously while being musically impeccable. The band’s enduring appeal centres on the charismatic presence of frontman Carl Puttnam. Possessing one of the most versatile operatic voices in indie history, he can pivot from a deep, soulful croon to a soaring falsetto with theatrical aplomb. Needless to say, such vocal dexterity is perfectly complemented by the band’s tight, rhythmic foundation – their jagged guitar riffs with a groove-heavy indie-funk sensibility a real joy to behold. And joy will be unbound when the band visit Sunderland this September. DP

Cud, Saturday 5 September, Independent, Sunderland, 7pm, £25, independentsunderland.com