Kelsea Ballerini 'SUBJECT TO CHANGE' Album Review

Kelsea Ballerini has the ability to charter new ground while remaining true to herself. Her new album SUBJECT TO CHANGE is guaranteed to remind her fans why they relate to her on a deeper level, and why she has a special place within the genre.

As if the cover art and pre-releases were an indication, this album exudes optimism amidst life's re-directions. The moment "HEARTFIRST" was released, it proved to be a gateway into the sonic nature of the record: a full embracement of pop country. "LOVE IS A COWBOY" and "WHAT I HAVE" showcase Ballerini's magnificent storytelling. "THE LITTLE THINGS" is a dance-worthy ode to what truly matters to someone in a relationship. "IF YOU GO DOWN (I'M GOIN' DOWN TOO)" is the friendship anthem everyone needed.

Ballerini has shared prior to the project's release that she was inspired by elements of '90s music. Whether that meant pop, country, or rock, the singer intended to create songs that derived from those sounds. "I CAN'T HELP MYSELF" is the kind of song that would make Shania Twain proud. It's the type that deserves to be sung and danced to proudly, as it honors everyone's more wild side. "MUSCLE MEMORY" stands out through Ballerini's vocals and melody. "I can feel my heart beating faster every time you get close / I can pick you out of a lineup, baby / Even with my eyes closed."

The collaboration between Ballerini, Carly Pearce, and Kelly Clarkson is just as iconic as one could hope. "YOU'RE DRUNK, GO HOME" has the sass and lyricism that should cast aside Ballerini's critics that she is not "country." They sing, "Hey, walk away / So me and my girls can do our thing / I ain't looking for a one-night rodeo / You're drunk, go home." The track is upbeat and once again, brings friendship and girl power to the forefront.

One can't look past the more vulnerable songs on the record. "MARILYN," written solely by Ballerini, contains lyrics that would make anyone want to peek in and listen a little closer. The track paints a picture of Marilyn Monroe who once seemed like she had it all: money, fame, and good looks; however, at the end of the day, it can be an isolating experience."Was it worth it to seem so perfect? / Blonde and curves didn't keep you from your skeletons / Was it worth it, show pony? / Did you miss being Norma Jeane?" Entry 13, "DOIN' MY BEST" may have an up-tempo rhythm, but the song is a true window into her life over the past two years. She sings about therapy, getting married young, and growing up.

The title track seems to tie everything together. "SUBJECT TO CHANGE," like the entire project, is as honest as can be. She sings about embracing the twist and turns that are always bound to come our way. Instead of fearing what is to come, she lets her fans know that it is okay to not be okay, to not be perfect. "I'm subject to going from zero to feeling obsessed / To happy and laughing to feeling upset / But if one thing's the same / It's that I'm subject to change."

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