Yellowknife (Mar 17/06) - A new CD containing 15 songs from Yellowknife musicians has been released to help promote tonight's Dream Weavers concert.

Azure DeGrow is one of the feature artists at the Dream Weavers concert playing tonight at the Northern Arts and Culture Centre. - NNSL file photo

Dream Weavers: an Anthology of Northern Musicians features songs by Brodie Dawson, Tracy Riley and 2005 Aboriginal Music Award winner Diga, among others.

Wanda Hatfield, the main person behind the project, said the CD was a chance to get more people involved in the event, including those who couldn't perform due to other commitments.

The concert and the CD are meant to pay tribute to the life of Christopher Richards, a local artist and musician who died in a canoeing accident last May.

"Some of the songs are inspired by Chris," Hatfield said. "Laurie Sarkadi's song Higher State of Mind was inspired by her interactions with him before he died."

She said the CD also features artwork by local artists Roberta Hickey and Elyse Parchoma. Proceeds from the concert will buy a portrait of Richards done by artist Graeme Shaw. The painting will be presented to Richard's family after the show. To help raise funds, Azure DeGrow, the "reluctant PR person" for the concert, said they have also put together a silent auction with pieces donated by local artists.

These include a vase painted by Jen Walden, jewelry and clothing made by Jamie Look and paintings from Elyse Parchoma. DeGrow said she was amazed at the way a small event to honour a friend had grown.

"It's more than just a way to get money for a painting, it's turning into a great experience for all of us," she said. "It will be a real eye-opener for the community about what is out there."

DeGrow also sings and writes songs for Redhouse Union, who will be playing at the show. She said she was grateful for the work Shaw had done, creating the painting and allowing them to purchase it at a reasonable price.

"Without his generosity, none of this would have happened," she said.

The show starts tonight at 8 p.m. at the Northern Arts and Cultural Centre. The CD is available at the concert for $15.