Review – Kelsey

EP: Kelsey
Release Date: Available Now
Genre: Rock

In a scene currently dominated by pop and alternative, solo Vancouver-based artist Kelsey is standing out with her new self-titled rock EP. Slow in tempo despite being such heavy hitters, each and every track on the EP feels like a homage to veteran fans of the genre: she turns her back on the earworms that monopolize the modern-day airwaves, and the result? A bite-sized EP perfect for rock fans searching for their next obsession.

All the tracks pair grungy downbeats and hefty guitar riffs with Kelsey’s girlish pitch—reminiscent of Paramore’s Hayley Williams—, and early-EP track “Shame” stands out as one of the collection’s best. Featured on BlankTV, “Shame” cements itself as a labour of love despite facing some backlash of being ‘generic’, as one YouTube commenter put it.

While such a descriptor may ring true for some first-time listeners—especially those who don’t typically listen to the genre, and will, therefore, be left searching for a musical ‘hook’ amongst an EP made for those who are already deeply entrenched in rock— it acts as a phenomenal stepping stone for Kelsey moving forward. With a voice that oozes talent, a skilled band behind her, and a clear passion for music, maybe that criticism will fan the flames of an even grittier future album. Plus, you can’t deny that after reading such a scornful comment you aren’t even a bit curious to make up your own mind; listen to “Shame” below and see if Kelsey’s soulful vocals win you over.

Connect with Kelsey:
Website
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