Kelsey Blackstone – 505 (2024)
Passionate, powerful, energetic and intoxicating, it is impossible to not lose your head once Kelsey Blackstone blasts through the speakers. Since her debut single ‘Lay You Down’ in 2021, the US-based musician is quickly building a name as an enigmatic, rambunctious, vivacious singer in the rock scene. From France to Brazil, Australia to the UK and her native USA, Blackstone has been described as evocative, adrenaline-laced, innovative and original. Join me as I jump into her critically acclaimed repertoire with the latest single ‘505’.
An award-winning artist, Kelsey Blackstone effortlessly flings together various styles in a gritty rock music wrapper. Following her collaborative single ‘When I’m With You’ featuring Jason LaPierre, ‘505’ is a nostalgic spin of alternative rock with soul sentimentality and a pop-rock kicker. An intriguing cover of Arctic Monkey’s 2007 single, this version retains the indie-rock feel while simultaneously adding diversity with her unique style. Blackstone’s vocals hold up to Alex Turner’s gritty tones; however, there is a contrary soulfulness oozing from the jazzed-up composition.
One aspect I truly adore about Kelsey Blackstone’s ‘505’ is the use of horns. While Arctic Monkeys bring the surge of their signature indie-rock guitars, Blackstone replaces the crashing guitars with a smooth saxophone. For me, the original version is abrupt, harsh and blunt; however, this version holds you in a velvet blanket comfortable, cosy and intoxicated by the kaleidoscopic twirls. It’s bouncy and fun but retains the profoundness of the original song.
Often referred to as Arctic Monkeys’ first love songs, one would assume the song to be heartwarming and soothing – as many love songs are. Yet, ‘505’ takes a turn to something more intricate and desperate referring to “a place where the relationship was fine but has since fallen apart…a person who is simultaneously keeping you alive and killing you on the outside…”
The brashness of the original captures vulnerability and painful fragility but Blackstone brings a happier sonic glance at relationships despite the devastating meaning. Fun and tender, Blackstone and her band snap up ‘505’ and bring a jovial twist to the woeful song.
In addition to the single, Kelsey Blackstone releases an official music video for ‘505’. You can view the video below or via her YouTube channel.
Find out more about Kelsey Blackstone on her official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Listen to more alternative rock songs on The Other Side Reviews Alternative Rock playlist:
