Since releasing her first single in 2014, Kelsea Ballerini has constantly evolved as an artist. While it was clear she was more in the pop-country sphere, she's continued to push the boundaries with her songs, her tours, and the details she's willing to share.
Ballerini has had some unique and exciting things happen in her personal life. She's channeled most of that into her music which gave us Rolling Up The Welcome Mat which was an EP released amidst her divorce. The songs are still some of her most vulnerable and popular, loved by many fans including myself.
That's why seeing her release Patterns was so exciting. It felt like a new chapter for her and something that people had been waiting for after Rolling Up the Welcome Mat. As solid as the album was, nothing can hold a handle to Patterns (Deluxe) which was released on March 7th, 2025.
Patterns (Deluxe) gave us an even deeper look into Kelsea's life, along with some deeply relatable songs. It truly feels like the start of a new chapter for her while closing the book on another, which is something we can all appreciate.
Patterns (Deluxe) is a glittering addition to the original.
Patterns (Deluxe) features 5 new songs from Ballerini and one that most of us were waiting for was "To The Men Who Love Women After Heartbreak," which was originally released as a digital exclusive on her website. It was also the first bonus track and one that many can relate to. It's a song about new love, appreciating who you're with, and reflecting on those first uncertain days, weeks, and months as you're trying something new after dealing with a tough breakup. Lyrically, it's a beautiful song and one that truly resonates with listeners of all kinds.
Next is "Future Tripping," which is easily the most danceable of all the bonus tracks. There is something about the sound and the beat that just makes you want to dance. Either way, the song is talking about the future and how everything is moving fast. Honestly, it feels like a response to those saying about Ballerini and Chase Stokes getting engaged. Given that the two were in long-term relationships before being together, it makes sense.
Then there is "Put It To Bed," which is another tone-shift and one solely focusing on flirting and wanting to be with your love. With her sensual voice and the suggestive lyrics, this one feels like it's going to be a bachelorette party anthem or one you listen to while getting ready to go out with your partner. This might be the most surprising song to make the cut, but it is one that still feels undeniably Kelsea.
Shifting gears a bit is "Cut Me Up," which is a melancholic and somewhat sad song about possibly losing the one you love. This is another one that feels like it's inspired by Stokes and the uncertainty of the future. Did I already mention that these songs are highly relatable? Well, I'm saying it again as it's just so true. Seeing these songs come out after something like Rolling Up the Welcome Mat feels like a real treat.
The bonus tracks capped off with "Hindsight is Happiness," which feels like the final nail in the coffin of her previous relationship and era. It's such a beautiful song and one I've found myself coming back to again and again. Honestly, all of the bonus tracks on Patterns (Deluxe) add something new to the album, making it well worth the purchase or streaming.