Review
Canadian singer-songwriter Haley Blais made a noticeable leap in her career with the release of "Below the Salt," her debut full-length album, which arrived on August 25, 2020. Moving beyond the bedroom-pop sounds of earlier projects, Haley presents a polished and mature indie-pop record that candidly deals with the complexities of personal growth and self-discovery. Her songwriting reflects a poignant blend of vulnerability, wit, and introspective musings on the realities of becoming an adult, wrapped in anecdotes of self-doubt, humor, and modest self-mockery.
Haley's operatic training is evident throughout "Below the Salt," as she deftly showcases her expansive vocal abilities alongside the indie-pop soundscape that defines the album. It boasts a collaborative production effort featuring indie-pop talents like the duo Tennis and artist Louise Burns, adding a layered dimension to the record with sounds that include vibrant piano chords, smooth guitar strings, and dynamic percussion. These sonic elements skillfully underscore the emotional narratives conveyed in her lyrics, particularly in standout tracks such as "Firestarter" and "Be Your Own Muse," highlighting the album's themes of mental health, complicated relationships, and the pursuit of identity. - Steven
