Haley Blais - “Survivor’s Guilt”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 5

Pairs Well With…Tomberlin, Cassandra Jenkins, Jenny Lewis

A little alt-country, a little pop-rock, Haley Blais’ music is immediately inviting, finding a sound that feels both authentic and sharply written on her 2020 record Below the Salt and an even stronger set of follow-up singles since. Her grounding in folk and soft-rock styles roots her music, letting tinges of grunge, alt-county, and sweet pop grow her sound instead of straight genre-hopping. Add in some jazz elements with a saxophone accompanying her most recent tracks and Haley Blais becomes an artist that truly is stretching what might feel like a bedroom-rock atmosphere into an original and engaging journey. Check out the Canadian artist Wednesday night at Swan Dive for BreakOut West, opening up a stacked showcase including recommended artists The Garrys, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Vox Rea, and Begonia. (Kevin McStravick)