Ruiz!, the enigmatic musical project, is the brainchild of Hugh Ruiz Robert, a multi-talented artist hailing from Barcelona but currently residing in Sheffield, United Kingdom. A true DIY artist, Hugh takes on the roles of songwriter, producer, and vocalist, while seamlessly blending various musical genres in his work. His musical journey as Ruiz! Began during the tumultuous times of lockdown in 2020. His songs transcend across the spectrum of 60s rock ‘n’ roll, electronica, punk, pop, psychedelia, and dark rock, all infused with his unique perspective on life in the modern era.
Ruiz!’s music delves into themes of life, love, and the challenges faced in this post-Covid world. Sheffield’s Reverend Jon McClure aptly describes his style as “Iberian Psych.” With his 10th release titled “Stupid Old Git” on Only Fruit Recordings, Ruiz! Has already gained recognition from influential platforms like Tom Robinson’s Fresh on the Net and BBC Introducing Mix-Tape. His music even found its way to the airwaves, with a play on Steve Lamacq’s BBC6 Music radio show.
Sheffield, where Ruiz! Is based, has a rich musical history that includes notable bands like the Arctic Monkeys. Hugh’s Catalan roots are an essential part of his identity, as he teaches Spanish by day in a local secondary school. With plans to take Ruiz! Live in the future and his second album set for release in February, he’s clearly excited about his musical journey. His music serves as an anchor in the chaos of the modern world, providing solace and inspiration.
His latest single, “Stupid Old Git,” released on October 20th, 2023, is a three-minute and 40-second journey through ‘60s-inspired psychedelia, featuring lush harmonies and captivating guitars. It’s a departure from his previous synth-heavy singles, yet it retains the addictive melodies and ‘60s harmonies that are synonymous with Ruiz!.
“Stupid Old Git” by Ruiz! Is a mesmerizing and multifaceted sonic journey that immerses the listener in a rich tapestry of sound. This track, released on October 20th, 2023, is a testament to the eclectic talent of the DIY artist, Hugh Ruiz Robert, who blends a myriad of influences seamlessly into a single song.
From the very beginning, “Stupid Old Git” exudes an air of nostalgia with a subtle nod to the past. The track opens with a gentle, dreamy quality reminiscent of 60s psychedelia. Lush harmonies and reverberating guitars create an otherworldly atmosphere that instantly transports the audience to a bygone era. The lyrics tell a story of encountering an irritating, patronizing, and condescending individual who made life difficult. We’ve all met someone like this at some point, making the song relatable on a personal level.
The choice of Arabic melodies in the song is a bold and inspired move, infusing “Stupid Old Git” with a distinctive Middle Eastern flavor. These exotic elements add depth and complexity to the track, creating a captivating fusion of Western and traditional music. The result is a sound that’s not just intriguing but also deeply alluring, as it beckons the listener into uncharted musical territory.
Ruiz!’s vocals are a highlight in themselves. His voice carries a weight of experience and emotion that resonates throughout the song. The lyrics unfold a story, and the vocals deliver it with sincerity and conviction. Ruiz! doesn’t just sing; he tells a story through his voice, drawing you into the narrative of encountering an insufferable individual, the “stupid Old Git” of the song’s title.
As the track progresses, it’s clear that “Stupid Old Git” is more than just a song—it’s a musical composition that unfolds like a living, breathing entity. The instrumental arrangement is carefully crafted, with each element contributing to the overall atmosphere. The gentle ebb and flow of the instrumentation, the ebb and flow of the lyrics, and the ebb and flow of Ruiz!’s vocals create a dynamic structure that keeps the listener engaged throughout the song.
The influence of musical legends such as The Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and Beck is evident but never derivative. Ruiz! takes these influences and adds his own unique touch, resulting in a song that pays homage to the past while remaining firmly rooted in the present.
In summary, “Stupid Old Git” is a musical masterpiece that transcends traditional boundaries. It’s a song that defies easy categorization, fusing elements of rock, psychedelia, and world music into a unique and captivating creation. Ruiz! has managed to capture the essence of retro vibes while injecting his own personality and vision, making this track a true standout in his discography. This is not just a song; it’s an artistic statement that showcases Ruiz!’s creative brilliance and musical prowess in the most profound way. It’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the artistry and depth that music can offer.
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