Roots, country, hillbilly, honky-tonk and bluegrass can all be found parading under the banner of Americana.

Its origins are rooted in US folk culture and small town life, with love and loss being central themes, and its purveyors are generally masters of mandolin, violin, harmonica, pedal steel guitar and banjo.

Brighton, meanwhile, is establishing itself as a gathering point for altcountry singer-songwriters from across the pond.

This brings us to a billing of three of underground Americana's finest: Steve Dawson, Bill Mallonee And The Trophy Wives and The Amazing Pilots.

Growing up in small town Idaho during the dark age of Ronald Reagan, Steve Dawson was drawn to his parents' record collection, which inspired him to take guitar lessons aged 13. His first professional gig was three years later.

After spending time in the band Dolly Varden, praised by critics as well as fans, he went solo.

Bill Mallonee's musical career began with the Vigilantes Of Love. The terrain viewed from the inside of a van as the band toured for ten years seemed to lend itself to the themes of Americana, and ten albums were spawned before Bill went solo.

The Amazing Pilots are two Irish brothers, Paul and Phil Wilkinson, who started playing music at home, just after tea.

Forming a band, they travelled to England and so began a journey of heartbreak (their record company folded just before the release of their debut album) and happiness (they were then signed by Decor Records and had a Single of the Week in The Independent).

Starts 8pm, tickets £9/£7. Call 01283 647100.