The people of Malta have all the more reason to welcome the versatility of the new MFCC this month as it prepares to convert to a world class music venue for its first autumn of live music. Two artists with enduring appeal to islanders have been lined up, with concerts by the much-loved Italian duo Masini and Tozzo on Saturday 20 October, followed by the classic British pop act Simply Red on 2 November.

Marco Masini and Umberto Tozzi will be performing hits like Perché lo fai, Ti vorrei, Disperato, Cenerentola innamorata, Gli altri siamo noi, Ti amo, and Gloria to their army of dedicated Maltese fans. There’s been hot demand for tickets, which are on sale from Calypso Radio in Bugibba, Café Elia and Hamrun Kiosk in Hamrun, all Maltapost branches or by email from info@calypsoradio.com

Hot on their heels will be a special performance by Simply Red, famously fronted by the flame-haired soul lothario Mick Hucknall, from Manchester, UK. The band play as part of a joint football and music experience, Simply Legends, in which fans can enjoy international football courtesy of England vs Italy on 1 November, followed by the concert on 2 November. With hits spanning three decades, from 1985’s Money’s too Tight to Mention and 1995’s Fairground to today’s Stay Simply Red have certainly demonstrated more staying power to justify their legendary status. Tickets to this small piece of history are just Lm 10.