American singer Macy Gray performs secret gig ahead of Cork Jazz Festival
Kenneth Fox
American superstar Macy Gray wowed fans at a secret intimate gig yesterday evening ahead of her sold out show at the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival.
The jazz-inspired evening in Coughlans Bar, Cork City, gave those lucky enough to be there a real taste of what is in store for the weekend ahead.
Along with her own California Jet Club band, the ever-electric Grammy award winner gave a very special performance with tracks from her new album The Reset and older favourites - a mix of her signature vulnerable intimacy and some resoundingly rebounding singalong pieces.
Macy Gray plays her sold out show at the Cork Opera House on Thursday night.
Macy is one of a host of international and Irish and emerging talent to perform at the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, which kicks off today for five days of thrilling entertainment.
This year's festival promises to be the biggest and best yet, with renowned jazz artists descending upon Cork for a weekend of unforgettable performances. The expanded programme features an extra date, with more than 100 ticketed shows and 500 musicians from over 40 countries.
Festival goers can also make the most of their festival experience by hitting the best music venues on the Guinness Music Trail which offers music to suit every appetite. Revellers will discover everything from ska to swing and jazz to brass as the trail leads you to more than 73 venues across Cork City, Douglas and Kinsale.
Add to that pop-up events, late night parties, and collaborations and you can see why it’s one of Ireland’s most popular festivals.
Some highlights over the coming days include: The Charlatans with special guests Pillow Queens, Karen Underwood and Corienne Bailey Rae.
One of the highlights for many is The Big Fringe, an exciting celebration of jazz on the streets that complements the headline shows and adds to the Festival experience for locals and visitors alike.
Organized by the local Cork Jazz Festival Committee, the Big Fringe, offers a free program that will feature impromptu soulful moments of jazz, big brass bands, and spontaneous performances by some of Ireland and Europe's finest jazz talent.