The Derry festival this year also features bassist Kyle Eastwood on the form of his life on his latest album The View From Here; the further croon factor of Anthony Strong factored in, an artist who through hard touring on the continent and further afield has proved himself the most successful new young jazz singer from these shores since Jamie Cullum broke a decade ago; drummer David Lyttle, fresh from Brilliant Corners where he appeared with Duke Special and Soweto Kinch last week; and Bennigans scene pianist John Leighton here teaming with the hugely influential jazz singer Cleveland Watkiss.

Also on are the tasteful Ronnie Greer Hammond organ trio; Dana Masters who sang with Van Morrison at a show in Belfast on New Year's Eve; the Puppini Sisters returning from the 2013 festival with their 40s Andrews Sisters-styled act; indie folk star Kate Rusby; and the Monaghan blues singer/guitar sensation Grainne Duffy with her band.

For the full list of who’s on in May go to: http://www.cityofderryjazzfestival.com

Curtis Stigers above