First off, I was not prepared for how deep Blackjacket’s vocalist was compared to Bruno Mars’ voice and higher notes on this cover of “Grenade.” Secondly, I love this song by Bruno Mars so much. I think he is a great musician that I don’t listen to enough, if I’m being honest.

Now, the opening of the song’s version had a more pop-metal mix sound going before fully letting the heavier notes take over, which made this an interesting mix. When it launches into the first chorus, it still takes on a softer metal quality, which I think fits the song. The drum beats loosen during the line “But you won’t do the same,” right before the second verse pushes it more into a metal-sounding mix.

I think I was expecting this cover to be more screamy and punchy metal vocals, not old-school rock metal. Before you all come at me, I’m not saying this is a bad take, not in the slightest. I was just caught off guard, as I love covers—especially those that do an opposite sound than the original. I was expecting it to maybe be similar to Chunk! No Captain Chunk’s cover of “All Star” by Smash Mouth, where there is a full breakdown during the song. I love playing that cover because it just catches people so off guard when it’s screamy sounding.

Giving this cover more listens and comparing it side by side to the original, I appreciate Blackjacket’s version staying more true to Bruno Mars’ version while adding in a mix of the drum and guitar riffs. Also, can we just talk about vocalist Chris Luca and how deep his tone is? I almost wonder what the original song would sound like but with his vocals layered on top. Just a thought—nothing against the cover or Bruno Mars. I’m just curious to hear how their voices would mesh together on a feature track. For those familiar with the original track, “Grenade” isn’t exactly a happy song. It’s about how he would sacrifice everything for her, but she wouldn’t because she’s not faithful to him.I think the deeper cut in the words that Blackjacket’s cover lends to the overall song message is gruff and rough, because sacrifice is about doing it without question—but the feeling clearly isn’t returned, which I imagine would create some anger. I especially love the belt towards the end of the song for the last chorus on the line “But darling I’d still,” because the amount of intent in that line pushes for so much—especially with that drum beat going.

Overall, this cover is not at all what I expected when seeing the words metal cover, Bruno Mars, and “Grenade” next to each other. I wasn’t disappointed at all, and I definitely will be checking out more of Blackjacket’s music. I was surprised, and honestly, it’s a bit of a refreshing moment to be caught off guard by music. I enjoy knowing what to expect, but sometimes the best moments and favorite new songs come in the most unprepared ways. Blackjacket is going on that list, and I look forward to seeing what comes next from them.

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