Sister act
Folk artists Elivia and Anita Cazzola on first Canadian tour, making a stop tonight in Charlottetown
For the past decade, Elivia and Anita Cazzola have entertained audiences, writing, performing and recording with groups like “The Secret Chords” and “Detour,” in their hometown of Guelph, Ont.
However, since forming their own folk group, “The Lifers,” just over a year ago, the sisters realized that they were fostering their own songwriting talents.
“We are very much bonded as best friends, sisters and therapists for each other. And, because of all these different connections we have, it comes through in our music,” says Elivia, during a telephone interview. Stage Door
Now with their first EP, “Set the Sails,” and their new single, “Home For the Weekend,” under their belt, as well as many local performances, the sisters are on their first cross-Canada tour, this summer.
“We’re so excited. We really want to have a good connection with the audiences, both on and off the stage. That’s because we gather inspiration from talking to people and learning about their lives,” says Elivia, of the band that will play Babas Lounge in Charlottetown today at 10 p.m.
Known for their acoustic guitar and sweet harmonies, the sisters will open for the East Coast band, Seaside Villains.
“We hope that we’ll be able to share our ideas and experiences with the audience at Babas. And, hopefully, they’ll be a lot of storytelling.”
Anita is looking for lots of interaction on stage.
“Audience members will be encouraged to sing along in parts of our tunes. We like to include audience participation in the sets, as we tour.”
One of the biggest challenges in touring is keeping their load light. Usually, “The Lifers” perform with glockenspiel, tambourines, floor toms and other instruments.
“We’ve had to pare down our usual set for the sake of travelling on buses, trains and airplanes, so we’ll have vocals, guitars, ukulele and accordion with travel-sized percussion,” says Elivia.
But, the downsizing worth it.
“Part of the reason why we’re on this tour is to get connected with people across the country. This is our first trip and it would be awesome to see some familiar faces when we come back next time.”
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