Bold, unapologetic rising singer/songwriter Ruston Kelly drops a single fitting to his characterizations – the frank and honest “Asshole (Demo).”

Cutting all the BS, who is Ruston Kelly? According to The Boot, “Ruston Kellyis a self-described ‘bastard disciple of Kurt Cobain and Townes Van Zandt.’” Wow.  The eclectic singer/songwriter appeared on my radar thanks to Spotify.  Spotify itself doesn’t get all the credit.  With a single bluntly titled “Asshole (Demo),” it natural piques interest – unless you’re totally offended by the profane that is.

“He pulled out his taser ‘cause he’s got no cock / Fucking cops.” Again, WOW.  Early on, it’s obvious that Ruston Kelly is totally unapologetic.  The more unapologetic and rebellious a singer/songwriter is, typically the better. No, you don’t have to be as profane as Kelly ends up being on “Asshole,” but his honesty and frankness is a selling point.  After he’s arrested by the cops for being inebriated, influenced by “two [coke] junkies,” he asserts, “Lately, I’ve been thinking I need to make a change / In how I do and what I say and behave.”  Eventually, on the relatively raw record (it is a demo, of course), we get to the proclamation we’ve all been waiting for:

“Taking everything for granted

The moment someone does something nice I take advantage

Easy breezy only when it pleases me, I’ve been told

I’m kind of an asshole

I’m kind of an asshole.”

The first step’s admitting you have a problem – wait – that’s AA.

Final Thoughts

Ruston Kelly is rough around the edges – understatement.  Nonetheless, he compels on “Asshole (Demo).”  This record oozes with personality, thanks to blunt songwriting and the raw, hardnosed pipes of Kelly.  Sure, “Asshole (Demo)” will offend those who opt against their music having salty language, particularly a salty title, but for those who don’t mind a swear or two or lots, well, Kelly’s “assholery” is for you.

Ruston Kelly • Asshole (Demo) – Single • Rounder • Release: 4.20.18

Photo Credit: Rounder