Vanessa Kafka And Her Band Visit The Jorgensen 3/19

Vanessa Kafka and her band will appear at Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, March 19, at 8 pm. A fan once said of Kafka's music, "If my soul could sing, this is exactly what it would say." Her revealing lyrics about broken love, recklessness, and new beginnings are instantly arresting. Her dynamic, yet soothing, sweet voice, combined with her unique guitar tunings, create a sound that brings back memories. Vanessa writes songs that are boldly emotional, fearlessly personal, yet universally appealing.

Of her 2008 album, Into Place, she says, "When people hear [it] for the first time, I can only hope that it helps them make sense of their emotions, of the fears and doubts that hold them back," she says. "Life is too short for regrets. It's all about taking chances. This album is my leap into uncertainty."

In concert, Vanessa's soulful vocals and delicate acoustic guitar play well against a backdrop of rhythmic colors created by Brian Sargent (electric guitar, vocals), Rohin Khemani (drums, percussion) and Marc Hickox (bass). Their warm musical tones create a dreamlike atmosphere
into which the listener can simply drift away.

This UConn graduate's musical journey began at an early age, and she developed a loyal fan base for her concerts at area coffee houses. Her talent has evolved until today The Ripple Effect calls Vanessa "a singer gifted with a voice...that just demands to be heard."

Chris Canty will set the evening's mood with a solo acoustic opening. His thought-provoking lyrics combine with a high-powered sound to create his signature acoustic-driven music. His songs resonate with emotion, yet are not so heavy-handed as to pull a crowd down.

The show, organized by the Jorgensen Student Program Advisory Board, will take place in the candle-lit ambience of the Jorgensen Cabaret with table seating and a cash bar (proper ID required). No food, however, will be served. Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets are $5 for UConn students and $10 for non-UConn students.

Jorgensen is located at 2132 Hillside Rd., University of Connecticut, Storrs. For tickets and information, call the Box Office, Monday through Friday, 11 am to 5 pm, at 860.486.4226, or order online at www.jorgensen.uconn.edu. Convenient, free parking is available across the street in the North Garage.