Cork Jazz Festival reveals more acts for 2024 event
BoolaBoom performing at the programme launch of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival on Wednesday. Picture: Darragh Kane
It was already looking like the best line-up in many years, but the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival announced several more impressive events at its programme launch on Wednesday evening. Those assembled at the rooftop bar of Cyprus Avenue heard of the addition of hip-hop royalty, a star-studded celebration of a Detroit legend, and an exhibition that pays homage to the jazz genre’s greatest label.
An extended version of the 46-year-old festival will see proceedings kick off on Wednesday, October 23, and run until Sunday 27th. Announcements had already been made about concerts from the likes of American superstar Gregory Porter, but Wednesday’s launch also revealed details of a gig by De La Soul at Cork Opera House on the Sunday. Primarily a duo since the death of co-founder Trugoy the Dove last year, the New York rap veterans have promised they’ll be joined by a “special guest” for the Cork show.
Another biggie announced at the launch was an event entitled ‘We Almost Lost Detroit’, which will combine the forces of three of Motor City’s music stalwarts in a tribute to Gil Scott-Heron. House music legends Moodyman and Theo Parrish will be joined by Brian Jackson, the multi-instrumentalist who co-wrote several of Scott-Heron's classics.
While Leeside’s serious music fans will be out in force for the Detroit event, another big night for the groovishly-inclined will be Thursday when Norwegian DJ/producer Todd Terje takes over the decks at Cyprus Avenue. Best known for his 2012 anthem ‘Inspector Norse’, the Mjøndalen marvel has also worked with the likes of Robbie Williams and Franz Ferdinand.
Triskel will continue its focus on ECM artists, while other highlights of the packed programme include Brass Band Boat Cruises around the harbour, and Blue Note 85, an exhibition at St Peter’s Church to mark the famous label’s 85th anniversary.
Previously-announced concerts include a particularly strong African strand, featuring such acts as Orchestra Baobab, Amadou and Mariam, and Seun Kuti.
At the programme launch, festival director Mark Murphy stressed the high number of Irish acts that had been included in the bill alongside the international talent, with the Kino and Cork School of Music hosting concerts this year.
“We’ve curated shows for fans of all jazz styles — from swing and bebop to fusion and traditional jazz — while also celebrating the genre’s influence on hip-hop, R&B, and dance music. The expanded Guinness Music Trail will provide a platform for local talent and create an unforgettable experience for festival-goers,” added Murphy.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Dan Boyle, praised the festival’s economic impact on the city: “The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival continues to boost our local economy while establishing Cork as a global hub for music and culture,” said Cllr Boyle.
- For further information and tickets, see guinnesscorkjazz.com
