Luann Kowalek

In this her third festival appearance, Luann Kowalek, a homegrown singer-songwriter, credits part of her development to Edmonton's Ukrainian culture.

She began her career playing everything from alternative to country, and today she looks back to musicians such as Rosanne Cash and Shawn Colvin as personal influences.

In fact, locals may recognize her from one of Edmonton's first all-female alternative bands, Petticoat Junction. The group disbanded in 1992, but she's continued with her music and writing.

She recently released Grace, which was graced and produced by Shannon Johnson, with instrumental support from Bill Bourne, among others.