Garden Bar & Bodega | Leslieville | Blast Toronto

Remember the beginning of that great David Lynch movie Mulholland Dr? The young actress comes into to town with all her dreams. Well I had a moment like that last night when I went to see the debut performance of Haley McNeil last night at Garden Bar & Bodega.

 

Haley moved from the small town of Teeswater to Toronto less than a month ago and came across this friendly little spot in Leslieville. The next thing she knows is that she just landed her very first gig.

 

She promoted herself as a country artist and when she got up on stage and began singing, there was so much more to her than just country pop songs.

 

She played some great cover songs by Alanis Morrisette, The Cranberries, Chapelle Roan and many more.

 

She had a few original songs to share as well. On her second set she gave us a tune called, “Boyfriend for the weekend”. I think she has a hit on her hands!

 

She really mixed up her musical style by playing Johnny Cash, Amy Winehouse and even snuck in a One Direction song.

 

The one thing that stuck with me was her stories about a musical mentor that just passed away. It was very clear this person had a huge impact on her life. She dedicated a song to him near the end of a set and held herself together quite well.

 

Wherever she came from, you could tell she is well loved because there were friends and family who drove over two hours to catch this show. The love in this room was immense and you could feel it.

 

I am not sure what plans she has for the near future, but you will begin to hear the name Haley McNeil floating around town very soon. So my advice to you is go and see the newest and most hopeful musician to hit Toronto.

 

The Garden Bar & Bodega is looking to add to there roster of musicians to play their room on Friday nights. So if you are a musician looking for an extra gig, go to 1173 Dundas St East at Coxwell. The place is warm and intimate and the food is delicious.