THAT musical hotbed otherwise known as the Sheepwalk in Leytonstone is very much back in business this week (well, it never really went away) after winning a reprieve from the local authorities who had threatened to shut it down earlier this year.

Police expressed concerns back in the summer over under-age drinking and drug taking in the main bar area of the popular watering hole, but now have said they are satisfied things have been turned around.

That's good news for the folks upstairs at What's Cookin', who can now look forward to many more nights of country, rock and blues on their weekly Wednesday night shows (and occasional Saturdays).

So why not head down on Wednesday (December 2) to celebrate with a headline set from blues-roots duo Michael Messer and Ed Genis.

Support comes from folk blues guitarist Bob Meyer.

But if you can't wait that long for your next dose of What's Cookin', the promoters are also hosting a night at the North Star in Leytonstone next Tuesday (December 1) with singer songwriter Gurf Morlix.

The multi-talented Mr Morlix spent 11 years working with the superb American folk-rock singer Lucinda Williams, and plays a similar style of tuneful goodness.

The show kicks off at 8pm and entry is free.

At the Standard in Walthamstow's Blackhorse Lane, White Horizon play a show on Friday (November 27) from 8pm.

Entry is £6, and expect some special guests too.

On Saturday (November 28) the venue hosts the Small Fakers. Entry is £9.

On Thursday (November 26) East 17 Jazz presents the Ben Somers band at the Plough Inn.

The next day (Friday November 27) five-piece covers band Red House play the Plough, playing a host of classic rock hits from the 1960s right up to the old 1990s.

Entry is free and it gets going around 9pm.

On Sunday (November 29) the venue is the warm and cosy home of Walthamstow Folk Club, who are putting on a night with a performance by Scottish singer songwriter Fraser Nimmo.

It starts at 7.30pm and entry is £6 or £5 for concessions.

Monday (November 30) is free Blues Jam Night at the Plough, starting at 9pm.

While next Wednesday (December 2) at the Rose and Crown in Walthamstow, it's an Open Mic night hosted by Graham Larkbey and friends.

All music styles and performers are welcome to attend and perform.

Have you got any special gigs coming up for crimbo or new year's eve? Contact Sound Advice via email at dbinns@london.newsquest.co.uk