A little bit country. A little bit rock ‘n roll.
Tennessee native Kason Lester delivers a taste of both worlds in his new release, “Unseen.”
“Can’t Hide Broke” is a gritty, rock-edged country boy single about drinking, trucks and money (or the lack thereof). Reminiscent of a Brantley Gilbert tune, it offers a glimpse of the fence Lester straddles between rock and country.
Fans of Lester will remember him for his season 17 appearance on American Idol, where his rendition of Chris Janson’s “Holding Her” wowed judges and pushed him through to the next round.
For the second single, and opposite of what its title suggests, “Conflicted” is a breezy, catchy, carefree summer song for the days when life is good and decisions aren’t all that hard.
The last two songs on the EP, however, are where Lester really shines.
Although the opening lyrics are a bit awkward, the title cut, “Unseen,” is a reflective, slower-paced offering that shows the richness and range Lester is capable of, and hints at his small town Church of Christ upbringing. Unlike many of today’s country singers, Kason Lester really grew up on a farm, and his authenticity shines through here.
The final cut, “When You Cry,” might be the best song on the EP. The music is uncomplicated, bringing to mind a Leroy Parnell 90’s country ballad, and most importantly, it is subtle enough to bring Lester’s voice to the forefront, where it belongs.
On his YouTube channel, Kason Lester boasts an impressive selection of covers from Post Malone to Luke Combs to 3 Doors Down, among others. He clearly has the voice to sing whatever he wants to sing, and he’s only getting better. Keep your eyes on this one.