Over the weekend the ‘music heads’ of Derry and the North went on a two-day trail around the city of culture that showed off the multicultural talent that Ireland has to offer.

Founded in 2001 by Phillip King, ‘Other Voices’ has been celebrating what’s been happening in the music scene in Ireland with artists such as Sinéad O’Connor, Fontaines D.C and Snow Patrol performing in previous years.

After a ten year hiatus ‘Other Voices’ returned with Derry being chosen to be the hosting ground for its 25th anniversary, hosting it previously in 2013 during the City of Culture Celebrations

The music trail led you around Derry’s best music venues such as St Columbs Hall, The Playhouse, New Gate Arts & Culture Centre and the Nerve Centre.

It was absolutely brilliant seeing such an array of musical talent from across the island and abroad taking up the stages.

Local Derry bands such as Tramp, Tessio and The Marra performed across the city as well as Scottish band Brògeal, Dublin band Really Good Time and Manchester band Westside Cowboy.

There were live ‘Soundings’ – discussion panels – featuring BRIT award winner Kate Nash, RTÉ’s Europe Editor Tony Connelly and local Derry producer Caolán Austin.

With all the events happening it brought a really great buzz to the city. Going from one venue to another hearing amazing talent wherever you went, whenever you went. It had a great mix of emerging and established talent.

This music event reminded me of what Derry has to offer and brought a great feeling to the city that should happen more often.