Jesse Grossi is a California based musician/singer-songwriter delivering a retro rock sound that used to be more present on the mainstream circuit during the 90s and early 2000’s. With ‘Outcast’ he delivers an upbeat and fun tune that captures the essence of rock music with strong pop sensibilities and great songwriting.
Jesse’s voice cuts through the mix from the beginning, reminiscent of a punk/emo delivery alongside inflections that have sprinkles of familiarity to REM. The acoustic guitar is pretty, the drums banging, and the bass distorted – all adding to the timbre of the song’s playful ruggedness.
Jesse does a great job with the chorus’ structure, adding more distortion and writing some memorable lyrics about having your psychiatrist pour you a drink. The verses touch on the cycles of debauchery and enjoying life. Ultimately this song is a great anthem for not apologizing for who you are and that includes indulging in the pleasures of life.
A nice instrumental break displays some impressive guitar skills before returning to a final pre-chorus and hook. Jesse’s songwriting thrives in his ability to compose various vocal melodies, deliveries, and rhythms between the sections of the song, providing a nice range and dynamics. This very range serves the song well, making the song never feel repetitive and on the verge of boredom.
For avid fans of alternative rock that is screaming for a good time, ‘Outcast’ is for you. In times when there are many reasons to be serious and not in the greatest of moods, Jesse Grossi has provided a strong tune dedicated to loving life and loving yourself.
Written by Jon Kagan
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