June 29 2025

The pair that calls itself Kelly’s Lot boasts a lengthy backstory. Named after its prime mover, singer/songwriter, Kelly Zirbes, they initially took their cue from the blues. Along with Zirbes, guitarist Perry Robertson plays a significant role as well. That’s evidenced by the fact that since
they started working together in 1996, and they’ve released some 17 albums following the duo’s debut at the famous Hollywood nightspot, The Roxy Theatre, nearly 30 years ago.

Given that lengthy track record, Late Bloomer might seem an odd title for an album that serves as a culmination of three decades that have f found them in consistent collaboration. Yet given the fact that this is also the first release since their last outing, 2020’s Another Sky, and that
lately, they’ve become a popular presence on the festival circuit, they may be experiencing a new chapter of sorts. Indeed, this time around, Late Bloomer doesn’t find them confined to any singular style. With only a few exceptions, the songs are nearly all upbeat. “This Time” in
particular defines that uplifting attitude. So too, other tracks share a similar stance, from the loping approach of “Savior” and the bright and bouncy title track, to the easy sway and sashay given to “Daddy” and the wistful repast taken with “Terry.”

That said, a darker tone can also be sensed in certain other songs, whether it’s the ominous tone infused in “Miner’s Ode,” Doug Pettibone’s plaintive pedal steel that echoes throughout “Let Live,” the candid confession of “I Don’t Understand,” or the matter-of-fact attitude used to fend off an otherwise belligerent “Bully.”

Regardless, when the two end the album with the overtly optimistic messaging of “Where There Is Hope,” Kelly’s Lot conveys a plausible possibility that even in this age of darkness and despair, the ultimate outcome may not be quite as bad as the pundits predict. “We can all live in peace,” Zirbes suggests, offering overt optimism that’s lately been in short supply. In that regard, one can sense that this Late Bloomer has clearly come of age.

Lee Zimmerman- is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capitol Records and director of communications for various CBS-affiliated television stations, he lives in Maryville, Tennessee.

To Read All of Lee's Reviews, Click Here