Information/Write-up
Kindergarten Heart is Shaina Hayes' follow-up to to coax a waltz, released independently in 2022, and her first release with Bonsound. On both albums, the singer-songwriter worked with Francis Ledoux and David Marchand (from the band zouz) who co-produced the record. Together, the three worked to gently weave elements of nostalgia, wonder and lightheartedness into this collection of songs. The result is a sophomore album which is both whimsical and earnest.
Shaina Hayes is a singer-songwriter based in Tiohtià:ke (Montréal, QC). Raised in a small farming and fishing village on Quebec’s east coast, Hayes’ intrinsic ties to her homeland and distinctive heritage have forged an earnest and glimmering framework onto which her music takes shape.
In the realm of music, where trends often shift as swiftly as shadows on a summer afternoon, there’s something refreshingly comforting about an artist who stays true to their roots. Shaina Hayes, the Montreal-based singer-songwriter, is precisely that kind of artist. With her sophomore album, Kindergarten Heart, Hayes offers a collection of songs that resonate with authenticity and sincerity, embracing the familiar warmth of indie-adjacent folk without succumbing to the allure of unneeded experimentation.
From the outset, it’s evident that Kindergarten Heart is a labour of love, crafted with care and attention to detail. Hayes’ enthralling vocals, accompanied by inviting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, weave a tapestry of nostalgia and introspection. It’s as if each song serves as a vignette, capturing moments of quiet reflection and profound insight.
Throughout the album, Hayes’ songwriting prowess shines, deftly navigating themes of childhood wonder, memory, and the passage of time. Tracks like “Early Riser” and “Kindergarten Heart” exude a sense of gentle optimism, evoking the warmth of a sunlit morning or the innocence of youth rediscovered.
Yet, Kindergarten Heart is more than just a stroll down memory lane. Hayes demonstrates a remarkable versatility, infusing each track with its own distinct flavour while maintaining a cohesive sonic palette. Whether it’s the infectious energy of “Fun” or the introspective beauty of “A Thousand Perfect Words,” Hayes proves herself to be a master storyteller, captivating listeners with her evocative narratives.
Teaming up once again with co-producers Francis Ledoux and David Marchand, Hayes strikes a delicate balance between whimsy and earnestness. The result is a sonically rich and emotionally resonant album that showcases Hayes’ growth as an artist.
Kindergarten Heart reaffirms Hayes’ status as a rising star in the folk music scene. With its timeless melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and soulful performances, the album invites listeners to embrace the beauty of simplicity and the joy of rediscovery.
-MontrealRocks, Feb 22, 2024
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