The first names for the Smithwicks Rhythm Roots festival, which takes place in venues across Kilkenny city from April 29th to May 2nd, have been announced.

US musician John Grant heads up the bill (and also plays Dublin’s Button Factory on May 3rd), while Beth Orton, Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson and Mary Gauthier will also play. More acts are set to be announced in the coming weeks. kilkennyroots.com.