The Durham Jazz Festival returns for three action-packed days this October, with a plethora of acts set to kick up a right old fuss in the historic heart of the region.

Whether you’re a lifelong jazz aficionado or simply looking to soak up top-tier live music in an unforgettable setting, Durham’s historic core is the place to be this autumn. From returning international stars to homegrown grassroots talent, the festival promises something to catch every ear and elevate every heart. Among the highlights is sure to be Emma Fisk’s Hot Club du Nord (pictured) with the British Jazz Awards nominee bringing to life the classic repertoire of Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli’s Hot Club de France, capturing the swinging Gypsy Jazz of 1930s Paris. The local jazz scene is super-hot right now and the Mercury Prize-nominated Knats will be going through their paces, but I’d also recommend another Newcastle based band in the shape of SwanNek. This contemporary collective creates bold, emotionally charged music that blends jazz with a wide range of modern influences, and they’re currently on a rocket trip to the planet Next Big Thing. Another astonishing act from the north-east is OUTRI—the solo bass project of Ian ‘dodge’ Paterson. He blends jazz, folk, electronica, and found sounds into atmospheric live-looped pieces. It’s really astonishing stuff. Other highlights? I’d definitely flag up Seb Rochford’s Finding Ways. Rochford is one of the most inventive figures in contemporary jazz and he’s bringing this powerful new project our way. Expect a bold blend of experimental grooves and raw improvisation. And you simply must grab yourself a huge slice of Rivkala. This extraordinary performer pulls together a glorious melange of jazz, soul, funk and klezmer, and serves it hot in a true theatrical experience filled with sharp wit, powerhouse vocals and utterly infectious energy. Another singer who should be filed under “Must See” is Eleonora Kouneni—a jazz vocalist and songwriter whose emotive style blends original music with fresh interpretations of timeless jazz standards. I don’t have room to mention all the artists playing here, but I must find room to point you in the direction of SULA. This London-based trio brings fresh energy to the UK jazz scene, with expressive improvisation, sharp interplay and a bold contemporary sound. And any Tom Waits fans should make an absolute bee-line for Tom Waits for No Man, a heartfelt celebration of the music of the great man, with vocalist Lindsay Hannon, and an acclaimed north-east ensemble, bringing fresh arrangements, atmosphere and emotion to songs from that legendary back catalogue. And the festival will close with a real show-stopping double-bill featuring the Olivia Cuttill Quintet with their soulful modern jazz, and King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys knocking it out of the park with their explosive blend of jump, jive and swing. Oh! I also must mention that at the Durham Jazz Festival Gallery (25 High Street, Prince Bishops Centre) you can see The Space Between The Notes, an exhibition featuring photographs of jazz stars from award-winning photographer John Lyons. They’re absolutely smoking!

Durham Jazz Festival, Friday 23-Sunday 25 October, various venues. Full programme and ticket details: durhamjazzfestival.co.uk