Highlighting five standout female performers from this year’s BreakOut West Music Festival.

Last month, Saskatoon’s Broadway district was graced with the presence of countless aspiring artists and musicians, who made their way from across the country to participate in the annual BreakOut West conference and to perform at the festival. From BC to Newfoundland, artists from all over Canada found themselves in the comforts of the various venues Saskatoon has to offer. 

Like many others, I tend to lean towards listening to international artists, often taking the homegrown talent around me for granted. When I do listen to Canadian artists, it’s usually ones that have branched out and made the United States their stomping grounds. So when given the opportunity to check out a couple of sets from the festival and immerse myself in the independent music Canada has to offer, I took it with great glee. 

Over the course of a few days, there were several performances, all of which were worth the watch. I had the pleasure of going to a couple of shows and was blown away by the performances of these five artists in particular. 

Les Shirley

First up is Les Shirley, an up-and-coming pop-rock band that has opened for Foo Fighters, Simple Plan, and Avril Lavigne. Composed of three talented women from Montreal, the rock group took the Black Cat Tavern by storm during their 30-minute set. They embodied the spirit of ‘90s grunge, from their attitudes to their melodies, embracing it as a central inspiration. The trio shook the floor for half an hour, singing in English and French, dedicating guitar solos to the ladies, and busting out songs that had everyone head-banging. The vibes were immaculate and their presence on stage was killer.

If you’re into grunge, rock, or pop and are looking for music that will transport you back to the ‘90s, be sure to check out Les Shirley and their sophomore album, More is More. 

Arielle Soucy (featuring Willium Bryozoan) 

Next up is Arielle Soucy, another Franco-Canadian artist from Quebec. Playing songs off her debut album Il n’y a rien que je ne suis pas, the folk singer-songwriter pulled the audience into a soothing, melodic lull. The album was longlisted for the prestigious Polaris Music Award last year and features stunning vocals and production. Her performance was full of soft, soulful ballads that had audience members of all ages swaying together. She’s an incredible vocalist, and the production of her music truly highlights it. She serenaded the audience in both English and French with relatable songs like “Pardonne-moi” and “Il n’y a rien que je ne suis pas.” 

Soucy’s performance was accompanied by the vocal performance of her friend and fellow Quebec-based artist, William Bryozoan. The harmony of their voices was something you really had to experience live—euphonic and tranquil. After hearing him perform one of his works, the audience was drawn to his music. His sound is softer, much like hers, but he incorporates unique samples and concepts that really set him apart from the mainstream. 

Soucy’s music is whimsical and touching, giving listeners an insight into her life and mind. Bryozoan’s is reminiscent of a mixture between folk and alternative. If you’re a fan of Maya Hawke, Faye Webster, Laufey, or music that makes you feel like you’re lying in an open field on a sunny day, make sure to check their music out.

Ayla Tesler-Mabé 

Based out of Vancouver, Ayla Tesler-Mabé is no stranger to the music industry. As one of the headliners for the festival, she was among some of the biggest artists who performed at BreakOut West this year. Tesler-Mabé has travelled the world to play music since 2017, dabbled in several different genres, and been a part of multiple groups, like Calpurnia and Ludic.

Her performance was stunning. She showcased her incredible vocal talent and impressive guitar skills, playing songs off her most recent EP Let Me Out!, for a thrilled audience. People of all ages were on their feet, dancing along as she busted out a show-stopping solo, beaming under the stage lights. 

Her discography ranges from indie-rock to alternative R&B to soul. Not to mention, she’s got a powerful voice and can shred the guitar. If you’re a fan of artists like Twin Peaks, The Regrettes, or Willow, you’ll definitely be able to find something you enjoy from her works.

Beau Nectar

A collaboration between two bilingual artists, Beau Nectar is a folk-electro-pop duo from Ontario and Saskatchewan that draws inspiration from nature to deliver listeners a vivid and surreal experience. The duo was energetic and charismatic on stage, telling the audience all about the inspiration behind their works, and how they met. Their energy alone was enough to make people want to get up and dance. Their sound was unique, utilizing different instruments and techniques in an almost psychedelic way.  

The duo released their first album Two Lips, a double entendre reflecting the floral theme of their music, just last year. They’ve racked up quite the accomplishments over their time together, completing two cross-country tours, winning four Trille Awards last year, and being nominated for four Capital Music Awards this year. 

If you’re looking to expand the scope of your current study playlist, I suggest checking out this aspiring ensemble. Their sound is unlike any other.

Nico Paulo

Nico Paulo is a Portuguese-Canadian pop artist based out of St. John’s who excels at emulating a dream-like environment through her music. Her music is dynamic and magnetic, with lyrics revolving around themes relatable to all listeners. She performed songs off her latest self-titled album for the enraptured audience and had everyone captivated as they swayed along to songs like “Time:” and “The Master”. 

Her voice is full of depth and mystique, and her lyrics, regardless of the subject, build a world of their own. She manages to turn relatable, everyday ideas into a grand, wistful symphony. 

As MTV puts it: “Your new favorite vocalist lives in Newfoundland.”