American superstar Macy Gray holds intimate gig at Cork pub ahead of sold-out Jazz Festival show

American superstar Macy Gray wowed fans at a secret intimate gig on Wednesday evening ahead of her sold-out show at the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival.

The jazz-inspired evening in Coughlans Bar 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 Grammy award winner gave a 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, who is one of a host of international and Irish and emerging talent to perform at the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, will play her sold-out show at the Cork Opera House on Thursday night.

Organisers have said 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.

Other highlights across the weekend include Kurt Elling at The Everyman, the Jazz Boat Journey with Jerron Paxton by Cork Harbour Cruise, Hypnotic Brass Ensemble at Cork Opera House, Matthew Halsall at The Everyman, The Charlatans with special guests Pillow Queens at Cork City Hall, Amaro Freitas at Triskel Arts Centre, Karen Underwood at Cork Opera House, Morcheeba at Cork Opera House, Cork Jazz All Stars XCLSV23 at Cork Opera House, Corienne Bailey Rae at Cork Opera House, Gilles Peterson at Cyprus Avenue, Fred Wesley & the New JBS at The Everyman, and many more.

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.

For the latest news and updates, including line-up announcements, fringe events, the music trail and more, see guinnesscorkjazz.com or follow the festival on @GuinnessCorkJazz.