On the Town: There was a musical gathering at Murphy's Brewery on Leitrim Street in Cork this week to hear about Murphy's UnCorked Festival.
Local musicians Pete Best and The Hoochie Coochies entertained the revellers with a taste of what is to come in blues and jazz. The deputy lord mayor, Dennis Cregan, officiated, while British comedian, Jeremy Hardy, was there to inject some wit into the proceedings.
Christy Healy, of the Lee Delta Blues Club and one of the festival organisers, was at the party, held to announce details of the comedy and music festival that will take place over the June bank holiday in Cork this year. "We are very proud to be involved with such an exciting event for Irish roots and blues fans," said Healy. "It will give the public a unique opportunity to experience the foot-stomping, eclectic mix of roots, blues and gospel from Ireland, the UK and even further afield."
Thirty Cork pubs will form a Blues Trail with 14 bands providing free music. These will include Big Daddy & Red Hot Java, Warwick Embury, Rollo Markee, the Barefoot Blues Band and the Deaf Boys of Detroit. Stand-up stars booked to perform include David MacSavage, Jimmy Carr, Paul Merton and the Comedy Club Players.
"It's sure to be an unforgettable weekend that will make Cork the place to be," said Kevin Cullinane, Murphy's marketing manager.
For more about Murphy's UnCorked, tel. 021-4501673 or 021-4270022