In addition to maintaining her integrity, Kelsea Ballerini has the potential to break new ground. Regardless of her genre, “SUBJECT TO CHANGE” is sure to remind her fans why they relate to her on a deeper level.

This album exudes optimism despite life’s re-direction, as indicated by its cover art and pre-releases. A full embrace of the pop-country was obvious from the moment “HEARTFIRST” was released. The songs “LOVE IS A COWBOY” and “WHAT I HAVE” demonstrate Ballerini’s remarkable storytelling abilities. An ode to the small things that matter in a relationship, “THE LITTLE THINGS” will have you dancing. Everybody needed an anthem about friendship, “IF YOU GO DOWN (I’M GOIN’ DOWN TOO).”

It is no secret that Ballerini was inspired by elements of ’90s music when she wrote the project. She intended to write songs that were derived from those sounds, whether they were pop, country, or rock. Shania Twain would be proud of a song like “I CAN’T HELP MYSELF“. This is the type of music you should sing and dance to with pride, as it honors the wilder side of everyone. Through her vocals and the melody of “MUSCLE MEMORY“, Ballerini stands out.

A collaboration between Ballerini, Carly Pearce, and Kelly Clarkson cannot be compared to anything else. Ballerini’s new single “YOU’RE DRUNK, GO HOME,” has a lot of sass and lyricism, dispelling critics who say she’s not “country.” The song is upbeat and reflects the spirit of friendship and girl power once again.

There is no way to ignore the more vulnerable songs on the album. There are lyrics in “MARILYN,” written entirely by Ballerini, that would entice anyone to listen a little closer to the song.

It might have an up-tempo rhythm, but “DOIN’ MY BEST” is a true reflection of her life. Growing up, therapy, and getting married young are among the topics she sings about.

Everything seems to come together in the title track. In the same vein as the rest of the project, “SUBJECT TO CHANGE” is as honest as can be. As we go through life, we will always have to accept the turns and twists that come our way. It is okay to not be okay, to not be perfect, as she lets her fans know instead of fearing what is to come. “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.”