Words and Photos by Jackie Grimson
Haley Blais brought her beautiful vocals and cinematic songwriting to New York City on March 14th, 2025. After the US tour was cancelled last fall and then rescheduled to the now-defunct Brooklyn Made, she finally made it to Chelsea’s Racket. Haley expressed her excitement to finally be able to play the show, having been touring their Wisecrack album for a year and a half, with this being the last show. I had the pleasure of attending the first New York City date for the album rollout back in April of 2024 at Elsewhere, so it was a unique opportunity to be able to see the end of the album’s tour cycle almost a year later.
The hot intimacy of Elsewhere was a far cry from Racket’s elevated stage and enveloping sound. While it wouldn’t be completely accurate to say that Haley has improved since the last show, as she was just as incredible live back then, the songs took on a unique quality, which comes with playing them over the course of a year. Haley’s hair was longer and blonder since the last show and she ditched the white button down and tie for an all-black flowy skirt and boots. However, she still had the same stage presence and confidence — she always makes performing look effortless.
Opener Wetsuit played an electric show, promoting their single Midwest Dream, which was released the night prior. The New York City-based band told the story of how they got the opportunity to open for Haley on social media after the show. The lead singer cold emailed Haley’s management asking to perform and successfully secured the spot. I was impressed by their tenacity and go-getter attitude. The following opener was Nat Wilson, whose talent and charismatic songwriting enthralled the growing crowd. Her supporting band’s onstage chemistry was also felt, including a moment when her bassist took the mic and started rapping in the middle of a song.
Haley Blais is going on to support Martha Wrainright on her 20th anniversary tour. You can purchase tickets to those shows here!
Loudspeaker Collective 