The Pavilion, Cork Thurs 8pm €20 021-4276230 pavilioncork.com

Belts may be tightening and hairshirts may beckon, but Cork is determined to keep its spirits up with the launch of Junction, a new monthly concert series. The emphasis is on bringing together musicians who may not often have the opportunity to share a stage.

This week’s stellar line-up unites the genius of English and Irish traditional and folk music in the shape of singer-songwriter Chris Wood (founder of The Imagined Village) and ace accordionist Andy Cutting (above), a frequent member of Kate Rusby’s band. Joining them are the effervescent Mancunian flute and pipes player Mike McGoldrick, Flook guitarist Ed Boyd and a musician in perpetual motion, Dónal Lunny. DJ Dolphin Boy completes the roll call.

Recessionistas beware: music like this is in danger of bringing a great big grin to your face.