The programme for this year’s Trans Festival, which will take place in Belfast from July 4th to 31st, has been announced. As well as providing a selection of workshops, art and comedy events, the musical strand offers gigs from a variety of local and international acts.

Now in its fourth year, the biggest names on the 2009 programme are Massive Attack, who’ll play a DJ set at the city’s Waterfront Hall on July 25th, as well as New York duo Telepathe (July 14th), Don Letts (July 10th) and John Mayall (July 22nd). Other international names include Micachu and the Shapes, Ebony Bones, Simian Mobile Disco and Dananananaykroyd.

Irish bands also get a look-in, with Northern-based acts The Lowly Knights, And So I Watch You From Afar, Panda Kopanda, Panama Kings and LaFaro being joined by Super Extra Bonus Party, The Vinny Club and Not Squares at various venues across the festivals duration. For more, see www.transbelfast.com.