Acrpost: A Project of the Pacific Association of Artist Run Centres

Event Description

Cowichan Performing Arts Centre Cabaret Series

The third season of the Cabaret Series comes to a close with Laila Biali. We'll transform our stage into the coolest place to catch live music in our speakeasy-style venue with on-stage seating. Seating is limited.

"An extraordinary talent..." Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter and pianist Laila Biali returns to the stage for another CPAC Cabaret Series performance. This Juno-nominated artist – and now weekly radio host (“Saturday Night Jazz,” 8pm to midnight on CBC Radio 2) – continues to garner global recognition for her performances at prestigious venues like the North Sea Jazz Festival (The Netherlands), Tokyo’s Cotton Club, and New York’s Carnegie Hall. Over the past couple of years, she has toured with Grammy winners Chris Botti, Paula Cole and Suzanne Vega. Also, she has recorded with and supported music icon Sting, who raved, “Laila is an exciting and unique talent and I admire her greatly.”

But for all her artistic brilliance and string of critical accolades, it’s Laila’s affinity for seeking inspiration in human relationships that most defines this highly admired artist. These special qualities were recognized by Toronto pianist Ron Davis, who described Laila as “a spiritually deep and beautiful soul,” adding “and this shows in her music.”

Catchy, sophisticated and unlike anything currently on the radio, it’s jazz music with a pop spin. Melodies take thrilling left turns and pre-choruses give way to instrumental interludes. One minute Biali is soaring over a bluesy storm of hand claps and hard-charging keyboard riffs (“Got to Love”) and the next, she is pouring her soul out in an impassioned, slow-burning ostinato. Her music is experimental, distinctly human and full of spontaneity and improvisation.

Come enjoy a night of outstanding jazz stylings with Laila's bright and vibrant music in an intimate setting with on-stage seating where you can see her up close and personal in our season finale of the CPAC Cabaret Series.