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Singer/songwriter Laurie Sarkadi's original music fuses folksy blues, world beats, alt-country and rock with compassionate narratives that document "the wonderful complexities of being a woman." Her new band plays tonight and Saturday evening at After 8 Billiards. - photo courtesy of Kirsten Murphy

Daron Letts
Northern News Services
Published Friday, November 21, 2008

SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Since moving North as a young correspondent with the Edmonton Journal, Laurie Sarkadi has earned a far-reaching reputation as a nationally-published writer and an accomplished broadcaster.

Her songwriting and musicianship are maturing in step with her other creative talents, as well.

Laurie Sarkadi and the Lift Tickets will open for six-time Juno award-winning Canadian recording artist Colin James on Nov. 29 for the eighth annual Festival of Trees.

Sarkadi is backed by a team of veteran local musicians. Bassist Alan Udell and drummer Kevin Dunbar are members of the band Funk 69, harmonica player Clayton Pielak is originally from Inuvik and has played around the North, vocalist and percussionist Sophie Leger heads another popular local band, Willowroot, and lead guitarist Jeff Norris has played with big blues acts in Memphis.

"I feel grateful to be playing with these really talented musicians," Sarkadi said.

"And they're all such nice people. We're having a lot of fun."

The band formed in August for a debut performance at Down To Earth Gallery during the Old Town Ramble and Ride festival.

Many of Sarkadi's original songs celebrate the struggles and triumphs of women's lives. The lyrics reflect the writer's quick wit and keen social conscience.

Live music fans can check out Sarkadi and her band tonight at 9:30 p.m. and again tomorrow at After 8 Billiards.

Tonight's show is a musician's jam and tomorrow night is a concert and dance party.