GEORGE MICHAEL is to play one of the biggest concerts ever staged in the United Arab Emirates in December 1st when he plays a show in Abu Dhabi as part of the local National Day celebrations. See NEWS for more details.

BOY GEORGE will headline a one-off German HERE AND NOW concert in Dortmund in March next year. He will be joined on the bill by PAUL YOUNG, KID CREOLE & THE COCONUTS, NIK KERSHAW, RICK ASTLEY, CUTTING CREW and T'PAU. See NEWS for more details.

THE CURE, who this week release their new album '4:13 Dream', have been named Godlike Geniuses by NME and the band will collect their award and perform at the music magazine's annual award ceremony in February. See NEWS for more details.

GO WEST have announced UK dates for February and March in addition to a number of festival and one-off appearances next year. See GIGS for all the details.

THE WONDERSTUFF's MILES HUNT has organised a special acoustic show 'Shared' which will take place in Birmingham in January. In addition to a set from Hunt the evening will also feature acoustic performances from WAYNE HUSSEY (The Mission) and RODDY FRAME (Aztec Camera). See NEWS for more details.

U2's new album, thought to be titled 'No Line On The Horizon', may be released early next year according to reports. The band are currently working with producer Brian Eno on the album which Bono has already described as the band's 'best ever'.

GRACE JONES' new album 'Hurricane' has been reviewed in the REVIEWS section.

With thanks to www.remembertheeighties.com:??"The eighties... up to date!"