NEWS: 50 gigs in 22 venues for ninth Belfast City Blues Festival

ROCK and metal evolved from the blues - and all self-respecting fans enjoy a little bit of the blues.

Well, on the weekend of June 23rd to 25th, the ninth Belfast City Blues Festival sees 50 gigs across 22 venues in a packed agenda filled with highlights.

From 'A Taste of Rory' featuring The Pat McManus Band, the Willie Byrne Band and Blackwood, through to two sets from The Steve Payne Trio (SP3) that includes Belfast's Billy Boy Miskimmin alongside the Bristolian legendary roots/blues man.

From shows in the Black Box, through to a Blues Cruise on Belfast Lough many of the shows are free and those that charge within the affordable range.

The likes of Rab McCullough are on the line-up, but one old rockers will definitely pencil in is a show by a rejuvenated Light - featuring the music of Jim Armstrong. Speedo Wilson will be taking over axe-duties for tracks like 'Castles In The Sand', 'The Dancer' and 'Harland and the Wolf'.

Belfast City Blues Festival, with main sponsor American Holidays, is what can be easily described as a weekend is packed full of gigs as well as amazing opportunities, including the now famous Blues On The Boat Music Cruises, taking place over the weekend on Belfast Lough. More than just music, there will be tasty food and drinks to spend a perfect Saturday afternoon sailing. The cruises are set to host top performers The Fabulous Mustangs, Rab McCullough & The Rev Doc and Lee Hedley & Co.

Topping off the Saturday night, the Belfast Barge Gigs will be showcasing some of the finest local blues talent in a chilled atmosphere. Performers include The Kenny McDowell Project and The Ronnie Greer Band featuring Ken Haddock.

Festival go-ers can also enjoy the Big Belfast City Blues Busk, taking place across the city with a top prize of £200.

At the Record & Memorabilia Fair fans can find the best of blues merchandise and vintage records from the best traders in the business. It’s just one of many events taking place at The Black Box and will be turning the city of Belfast into a celebration of the genre, blues fans of all backgrounds can come together on this vibrant, fun-filled weekend.

Other sponsors of the festival include Belfast City Council, Kolor Master Belfast, Sunday World,

Berts, FT Contracts, Aer Lingus, Guinness and U105.