Her album begins with the up-tempo and fun “XO,” where her vocals are reminiscent of LeAnn Rimes meets Kellie Pickler. It is followed by the gorgeous ballad “Peter Pan,” which is mellifluous from start to finish, and worthy of becoming her next radio single.
Her breakthrough single “Love Me Like You Mean It” reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Airplay charts, and rightfully so. “Square Pegs” is another fun and mid-tempo vocal on the collection, while “First Time” is a poignant ballad, featuring her crystalline voice.
“Looking at Stars” is laid-back and refreshing, and “Sirens” is a spitfire tune, where the listener can recall a young Miranda Lambert. She changes the pace with the upbeat and fun “Dibs.”
“Stilettos” is another great story song, and “Yeah Boy” is sassy, soothing and cheerful. It closes with “Underage,” where she leaves her listeners wanting to hear more songs.
The Verdict
Overall, Kelsea Ballerini delivers on her new CD The First Time. She showcases a great deal of potential to become the next big female country superstar in the genre, and judging from her first single, she is off to an excellent start. There are no filler tracks on this album. The sky is the limit for Ballerini. This CD garners an A rating.
