Kaleah Lee - “Rotting Fruit”

SXSW 2024 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 5

Pairs Well With…Julien Baker, Joy Oladokun, Adrianne Lenker

Subtle and emotionally moving, Kaleah Lee’s softened, bedroom rock/pop performance is notable as a nuanced, spacious take in folk-based balladry. Borderline hypnotic, Lee’s fingerpicked melodies stretch beyond standard campfire fare, slow, steady patterns that seem to continue in perpetuity. A singles artist so far with an EP due sometime this year, Kaleah Lee is consistent in whispered, indie-folk tones and strikes a beautiful landing throughout the bulk of her seven released tracks so far. Coming to SXSW from Vancouver, Canada, Kaleah Lee brings with her a lonely coldness in her music, heartbreaking energy while keeping all the crying inside. It’s music that feels heavy, but delivered with the lightest touch. Kaleah Lee showcases for The Luna Collective & Father/Daughter Records Friday night in an appropriately quiet space of St. David’s Bethell Hall. (Kevin McStravick)