In an extract from a new book on Rory Gallagher, film director Tony Palmer recalls the making of 'Irish Tour '74'.

Gospel blues singer Mary Ryan, roots blues singer and guitarist Mark Braidner, and ragtime pianist Simon Templeton have come together as the Mary Ryan Blues Trio and recorded a range of gospel blues, delta blues and vaudeville numbers from

The long-running weekly jazz session at JJ Smyths jazz and blues venue will come to a close with a final gig on Thursday, 7 June.

Acts confirmed for the small Kildare pub for the year ahead include Johnny Duhan, Ger Wolfe, Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart, Peter Mulvey, John Spillane, Otis Gibbs, Woodbine, Richard Gillewitz, Sara Grey and Kieron Means, and Jeff and Vida.

Who is Kevin Volans? George Rafael goes looking for an answer after hearing the composer's latest piano concerto at the BBC Proms.