Bob Geldof, Neil Jordan and Imelda May are among the stars who have contributed to the new Hot Press 'Stay Safe' issue – available to pick up in shops or online now.

In the face of increased coronavirus restrictions, we find ourselves in unprecedentedly uncertain and troubling times. However, desperate times call for special responses – and that's why we in Hot Press are proud to present this special issue, published against the odds. As well as containing all the fine music writing you'd expect of Hot Press, this unique edition will serve as an essential Survival Guide to the days ahead.

The Hot Press Stay Safe Emergency issue features a series of special Letters From Home from Irish stars and cultural leaders – including Bob Geldof, Neil Jordan, Imelda May, Laura Whitmore, David Keenan, Danny O'Reilly of The Coronas, Faye O'Rourke of Soda Blonde, Jim Sheridan, Louize Carroll of The Blizzards, JyellowL, James McGovern of The Murder Capital and Glen Hansard.

Elsewhere, we hear from the radio DJs and presenters who are helping us to power through these tough times in a special 'Broadcasting From Home' feature – with contributions from Lucy Kennedy, Jennifer Zamparelli, Ian Dempsey, Tracy Clifford, Dan Hegarty, Ed Smith, Paula MacSweeney, Valerie Wheeler and more.

And, superstar Sam Smith offers his response to the killer virus, Covid-19.

Produced in the eye of a darkening storm, our once-off 'Stay Safe' Emergency issue will be full of brilliant, up-to-the-minute material – charting the stranger-than-fiction story of the crisis, and providing readers with essential tips for keeping themselves occupied during lockdown.

With a community-oriented focus that celebrates the best of Irish music, life and culture in the midst of these brutal days, this Covid-19 Emergency issue is absolutely essential reading for everyone on lockdown.

Pick up your collectors' copy of this historic issue of Hot Press in shops now – or order below: