Shaina Hayes - To Coax a Waltz (2022)

Montreal’s Shaina Hayes’ 9-cut debut is compelling. What’s of interest is that Shaina (vocals, guitar) performs a bit differently than most. There’s an airiness, atmosphere, mood & ambiance that she creates in each tune. “Honey Friend,” may remind one of the more haunting songs of Jane Siberry (“The White Tent The Raft”) & Kate Bush. But there’s a subdued style at work that allows Ms. Hayes’ to carve out her own domain.

Especially with the “Hawaiian-guitar” strains of David Marchand’s pedal steel (guitar/bass/keyboard & voice) dipped in the noir music of “Half a Mind.” A little jarring at first but then it takes shape & works. Works to the point that it has an Appalachian flavor. Strange. Shaina’s vocal wavers & soars with ease which makes the song all the more interesting.

“Mud,” is haunting in its melodic groove. Acoustic & lead guitar paint vivid pictures. It isn’t deviant, isn’t dark like Dead Can Dance or The Swans. Shaina manages her music & keeps it tightly melodic, enjoyable & broad.