A palpable energy thrummed through Montreal’s Le Ministère as the remnants of a snowstorm clung to the air. But the wintry weather couldn’t dampen the fervent anticipation for Shaina Hayes‘ release show for her sophomore album, “Kindergarten Heart.” The sold-out venue served as a testament to Hayes’ burgeoning magnetism, a musician steadily carving a unique space in the Canadian music scene.
The crowd, a harmonious mix of established musicians (including fellow artists Eve Parker Finley and Matt Holubowski), loyal fans, friends, and family, had braved the snowy conditions to attend what turned out to be a very special night of music.
Hayes’ grounded stage presence belied soaring vocals that resonated with the vastness of her Gaspésie roots. The setlist flowed seamlessly, with “Early Riser,” the opening track and a microcosm of her sound, setting the tone perfectly. A judicious mix of songs from her debut album, “To Coax A Waltz,” alongside new material from “Kindergarten Heart,” showcased Hayes’ artistic evolution. Each song builds on the last before dissolving into the energy of the next.
During the evening, Hayes took the time to thank those who helped create the new record. Some of those people were on stage with her; many were in the audience. From her new label, Bonsound, to the photographer and artist who created the album cover, the people responsible for recording and mastering, and the musicians who donated their talents to the music itself.
A highlight of the set occurred when Shaina was joined onstage by a choir of her friends to accompany her in the centre of the stage for the hauntingly beautiful “Fool Forlorn.” The track served as a platform for Hayes’ remarkable vocal range and emotional depth, with each note resonating deeply. This beautifully serene moment of camaraderie captivated the crowd.
The aptly titled Kacey Musgraves-esque romp ” Fun” showcased Hayes’ potential to expand her sound far beyond the indie folk scene before the album’s title track, “Kindergarten Heart,” solidified itself as the emotional anchor of the evening. An ode to youthful innocence, the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious hooks had the crowd swaying in unison. The song navigates pop-country influences while maintaining her signature rustic charm (she is a farmer, after all), solidifying her position as a versatile artist with a distinct voice.
Beyond showcasing artistic growth, the concert transcended the walls of Le Ministère. The shared human experience resonated through every note, a reflection of the joy, pain, love, and loss woven into the fabric of our lives. As the final notes of “King” faded, the venue erupted in applause, a fitting conclusion to a night steeped in captivating music and a palpable sense of artistic triumph.
To quote one onlooker, “Wow!”
Setlist:
Early Riser
Weather
New Favorite
Mud
Sun and Time
Half A Mind
Sidewalk
Heat Wave
Call It
A Thousand Perfect Words
Fool Forlorn
Honey Friend
Fun
Kindergarten Heart
Mastery
King
Review & photos – Steve Gerrard
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