Alexis Reel: The Grit and Soul of Modern Blues-Rock
Alexis Reel is a Canadian blues-rock singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her raw vocal power and incendiary live performances. Hailing from Toronto, she achieved commercial recognition with her 2018 album Rustbelt Heart, which charted in the Top 20 on the Canadian Albums Chart and was certified Gold.
Early career
Born in 1990, Alexis Reel began her musical journey in the vibrant clubs of Toronto's Queen Street West. Her early years were spent honing a formidable guitar style, leading to the self-release of her debut EP, Steel City Sessions, in 2014.
This independent release caught the attention of indie label Northern Echo Records, which signed her in 2015. Her first full-length album, Gravel Road (2016), established her signature blend of traditional blues structures with modern rock energy.
Breakthrough
Reel's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of Rustbelt Heart on Northern Echo. The album's lead single, Detroit Steel, became a staple on rock radio, peaking at number 15 on the Billboard Canada Rock chart.
The album's success was bolstered by extensive touring and a support slot for The War on Drugs in 2019. Rustbelt Heart eventually achieved Gold certification in Canada for sales exceeding 40,000 units.
Key tracks
Detroit Steel — This charting single defined her breakthrough with its anthemic chorus and searing slide guitar work.
Borrowed Time — A slower, soul-infused track that showcased the depth and vulnerability of her songwriting.
Queen Street Shuffle — A high-energy ode to her Toronto roots that remains a fan favorite and concert staple.
Line in the Sand — Featured a notable collaboration with guitarist Colin James, highlighting her credibility within the blues community.
Mercy Now — Her raw, acoustic-driven cover of the Mary Gauthier song demonstrated her interpretive skill and emotional range.
Following her breakthrough, Alexis Reel collaborated with producer Joe Ciccarelli on her 2021 follow-up, Phantom Power. The album debuted at number 12 in Canada and included the rock radio hit Hard Way Home.
Her most recent work includes a 2023 collaborative EP with alt-country artist Leith Ross and headlining performances at major Canadian festivals like Ottawa Bluesfest. Fans of her gritty, soul-infused rock style may also appreciate the work of similar artists. Discover The Beaches for their sharp, garage-rock energy from Toronto. The blues-rock intensity of Whitehorse offers another compelling Canadian duo. Listen to The Blue Stones for a modern, riff-heavy rock approach. Explore City and Colour for a more folk-oriented but equally heartfelt songwriting style.
The music of Alexis Reel maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on classic rock FM stations and independent music radio stations that champion guitar-driven artists. Her tracks are regularly featured in the rotations of online rock radio streams and alternative rock radio stations across North America.
Listeners can discover the powerful blues-rock catalog of Alexis Reel through the radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to stations available on onairium.com to hear her defining hits and latest releases.
