HALEY HEYNDERICKX
I’ve heard nothing but compliments about Haley Heynderickx. Mostly coming from my sister, whos been religiously listening to her stuff recently. And when Haley walked onto stage, turtleneck and all, I was not disappointed.
She’s such a sweetheart. Unfortunately, she didn’t have her band with her, but that did not make her set any less special.
Even though she was suffering a cold, Haley’s voice was still as enchanting as it always is. So enchanting in fact, that you could hear everyone shush each other when she started playing the first couple notes of her next song. She was super interactive and fun with the crowd as well, telling us briefly what her songs are about and why she wrote them, or asking us how we survive the cold, and even trailing off into deep subjects. Such as heartbreak and how incredible it is that any of us were even born.
My favourite part of her set was when she encouraged the crowd to sing along to her song “Oom Sha La La.” Just the way everyone in the venue followed her lead, singing super softly along side Haley. It was comforting to be a part of.
Haley Heynderickx is a perfect fit for Montreal’s soft side. I hope she agrees with that statement, because it would be wonderful to have her back.
ANDY SHAUF
Now that the audience was introduced with a calm and collected mood, it’s only fitting for Andy Shauf to keep the train going. Standing centre stage with his five band members looming behind him, complimenting his vocals and acoustic guitar with skills of their own.
He has a very nice stage presence. Asking the crowd if they have any questions they wanted him to answer. It’s always lovely to see a performer show his audience his appreciation. Even if it’s just humouring them with answering the question; “what’s your favourite fruit?”
Andy and his band played wonderfully. Their energy was intoxicating, causing everyone’s head to bop up and down and side to side. It’s just the kind of set that puts you in a really good mood. Songs that tell stories, lights of solid reds and blues that wrap the band around in a blanket of fitting aesthetics, and a supporting venue filled with people will always go together in my book.
Soft indie shows are consistently a refreshment for me, and i’m so happy Haley Heynderickx and Andy Shauf were tonight’s relaxing cup of warm coffee. It’ll be nice to see those two artists again when they return. Hopefully it won’t be so cold.
Review – Jamie Siddall
Photos – Jean-Michel Lacombe
