By: Sam Stevenson
Journeying through the universe of music and sound is UK-based artist The Curse of KK Hammond, who paints a chilling scene with her adaptation of Nirvana’s famed song, “Heart Shaped Box.” Her horror blues rendition is a reflection of her remarkable ability to satiate a global desire for uniqueness, while breaking new ground on the music scene.
KK Hammond prevails as an intriguing figure in the dynamic landscape of today’s music, delivering her distinctive blend of horror blues in a style that is both contemporary and refreshing. As the boundaries of musical genres evolve and reshape, Hammond maintains an endearing loyalty to her roots, which offers her listeners a comforting retreat into a harmoniously manipulated sonic realm.
Her version of “Heart Shaped Box” epitomizes her commitment to musical originality. Hammond daringly breathes into this timeless track her own brand of horror blues, adroitly transforming the rock anthem. Whether her influence on the blues genre or her seamless fusion of tradition with invention, Hammond reveals the intricate layers of the blues spectrum in a uniquely appealing manner.
Under Hammond’s crafty influence, Nirvana’s “Heart Shaped Box” evolves into an exquisite auditory showcase. Pairing “Horror” and “Delta Blues,” she morphs the familiar melody into a haunting and unforgettable masterpiece that resonates in listeners’ minds. With a strong infusion of Southern Gothic Horror juxtaposed against the backdrop of traditional roots music, Hammond personalizes Nirvana’s cult classic.
Her painstaking efforts have not gone unnoticed. Hammond’s repertoire has enjoyed worldwide airplay on quintessential radio shows, earning her accolades from music legends such as Metallica. Her unique “horror blues” and skillful slide guitar playing have amplified her resonance across borders and established her as a force to be reckoned with.
Evidence of Hammond’s entrancing musical talent is intensely reflected in her cover of Nirvana’s “Heart Shaped Box.” This thoughtful tribute highlights not only her respect for the original cut but also her knack for weaving her unique horror blues style into every note and lyric. The raw emotion that pervades throughout the cover creates an unforgettable auditory experience, extending an open invitation to explore her intricate and fascinating world.
Once drawn into Hammond’s captivating musical realm, there is no way back. The spellbinding power of her horror blues style, encapsulated in her compelling melodies blended with raw blues, and compelling vocals, leaves an everlasting impression. It is an experience like no other, inviting everyone to dive in and engage with her musical artistry.
KK’s “Heart Shaped Box” revelation occurred almost by chance during a casual jam session with her close friend and fellow blues musician, Kaspar ‘Berry’ Rapkin. Their shared admiration for Kurt Cobain and a contemporary Nirvana revival led to an impromptu performance of “Heart Shaped Box,” which was captured in a short video. After going viral on both Instagram and TikTok, they decided to fully record and film their blues-infused, gothic hillbilly-style version of the song. Mixed and mastered at the renowned Abbey Road Studios in London, the cover included Kaspar strumming the banjo while K.K. strumming the resonator guitar.
The single’s B-side features a remix of K.K.’s popular 2021 cover of the traditional folk song, “In the Pines,” also covered by Nirvana as “Where Did You Sleep Last Night.” This track offered a fitting complement to “Heart Shaped Box,” displaying the dark, brooding, and soulful essence of the blues rock, dirty blues, and alternative folk genres that define Hammond’s style.
In the musical tapestry that Hammond skillfully weaves, every thread is a reflection of her interpretive prowess and her unwavering dedication to her roots. Her spellbinding interpretation of Nirvana’s “Heart Shaped Box” resets the bar for covers, making her distinct horror blues style an inspiration for budding artists everywhere.
Join The Curse of KK Hammond on her enchanting musical journey by visiting facebook.com/thecurseofkkhammond, www.twitter.com/thecurseofkk and www.instagram.com/thecurseofkkhammond.
