Kelsey Montanez Blends Classic Western Influences with Modern Alternative Appeal on New Single "Big Machine"

Kelsey Montanez has carved out a unique niche in Chicago’s independent music scene, blending indie rock, alternative pop, and stripped-down singer-songwriter elements. Starting her songwriting journey as a teenager, she has focused on strong lyrics and a distinctive vocal style rather than chasing trends. This dedication has garnered her accolades from the Chicago Reader, which named her both Best Pop Artist and Best Singer-Songwriter. Tracks like “Infinite Bloom,” “All There Is,” and “Kick the Habit” showcase her diverse musical personality. With her recent debut album, All There Is, Montanez is exploring darker, more expansive sonic territories, and “Big Machine” exemplifies this evolution.

The song has a cinematic quality, driven by a rugged, western-flavored guitar that evokes a sense of movement and unease, reminiscent of a journey through a once-familiar yet unsettling landscape. While it thoughtfully examines themes of money, consumption, and power, Montanez skillfully avoids overt political statements; instead, the song’s tension and mood convey its message. Her voice adds depth, balancing strength with vulnerability, which keeps the track from feeling overly calculated. Produced by Noam Wallenberg, “Big Machine” maintains ample space for development, enhancing its expansive nature without overshadowing the songwriting. It hints at classic rock swagger while remaining distinctly modern, showcasing Montanez's unique style.

What resonates most about “Big Machine” is its authentic connection to the recurring themes in Montanez’s work—identity, desire, and the quest for genuineness—expressed through a more restless, widescreen musical approach. While comparisons to artists like The Strokes and St. Vincent highlight its attitude and texture, Montanez’s personality ensures it never feels like mere imitation. Instead, “Big Machine” marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for an artist who has long been honing her craft.

With her involvement in the heavier, experimental rock project Channels, Montanez is clearly poised for further artistic exploration. For now, “Big Machine” stands out as a gritty, atmospheric, and purposeful step forward, inviting listeners to engage without spelling everything out.