The new all-star band featuring Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, Kenny Garrett, Christian McBride and Vinnie Colaiuta has been booked for this year’s Cork Jazz Festival taking place in the Irish city from 24-27 October. The main event in the Irish jazz calendar, this year’s line-up also includes Courtney Pine, David Murray, The Yellowjackets, Georgie Fame, Cindy Blackman, Martial Solal, Lee Konitz, Cedar Walton and Dave Liebman. For more info go to www.corkjazzfestival.com

 

Pictured: John McLaughlin

Dr John, Allen Toussaint and a host of top New Orleans stars are set to appear at a unique free entry festival at London’s 02 celebrating New Orleans Music and Culture. Set to take place on 24 and 25 October the festival is planned to coincide with the New Orleans Saints NFL game against the San Diego Chargers at Wembley. Also on the bill for the O2 are Kermit Ruffins, Marcia Ball, BeauSoleil, The Rebirth Brass Band, John Mooney and Buckwheat Zydeco and a host of authentic New Orleans attractions, including a recreation of the French Quarter’s Bourbon Street. For more, go to www.TheO2.co.uk

 

Pictured: Allen Toussaint 

The countdown to the start of the Belfast Festival on 17 October has begun. The festival - now in its 46th year - runs until 1 November and hosts a variety of music, drama and dance performances throughout the city. The Bobo Stenson Trio, Liane Carroll, Manu Katche and Billy Cobham & Asere are all set to perform. The Bobo Stenson Trio play at the Elmwood Hall on 18 October, Liane Carroll is at the Spiegeltent on 23 October, Manu Katche plays at the Elmwood Hall on 1 November and Billy Cobham & Asere also take to the stage at the Elmwood Hall on 25 October. The festival will also play host to such world music artists as Orchestra Baobab (Whitla Hall, 19 October) and Seu Jorge (Mandela Hall, 29 October). For further information on the festival go to www.belfastfestival.com

 

Report: Ben Mulholland

 

Pictured: Bobo Stenson