Andrew Ruoti – Odyssey (2022)
As a full-time music teacher, singer-songwriter Andrew Ruoti believes in the power of music to express one’s emotions. Using music as an artistic catharsis, it is possible to communicate thoughts and feelings without speaking a single word; however, it is communication and connection that Ruoti aims to achieve. Already an established artist in the indie world, Ruoti and his bands are turning heads across the globe. Moreover, he has opened for acts like Evanescence and has been awarded as Rhythm & News Magazine’s most popular band three years in a row. One of his most recent releases is the EP Odyssey.
A collaboration with Emmy Award-winning producer Uly Millan, Odyssey is a transcendental journey through different genres, themes and concepts. Inspired by life in its entirety, Ruoti explains that “diversity is the key with this album…the big motivation for me was to write something from the heart that people could connect to. It’s amazing to think someone on the other side of the planet can be listening to your song and establishing a connection with you…”
A five-track EP, Odyssey brings an intimate intensity to its soundscape as Ruoti connects with his audiences in an abstract way. In fact, it is the personal narrative that Ruoti hopes will share the relevancy and relatability of his music even if the audience’s perception is slightly different. Penned during the “pandemic years”, Odyssey is “…the journey of the collective…everyone in the world navigating through these challenging and uncertain times…”
Alright, so we get that US-based Ruoti is shooting for an intimate connection with listeners on an abstract scale, but what are the tracks that drive us to this connection? Opening with the track ‘State of the World’, Ruoti slowly draws you in with a soft, soothing wistful haziness in an ethereal soundscape. Inserting orchestral elements, the misty haze has an eclectic style leaning somewhat toward the melancholic.
The second single notes Ruoti’s versatility with a bold, rich transition to RnB sentiments. Soothing, smooth and warm, his smooth vocals lay atop acoustic guitars, piano and drums. What I find intriguing about this transition is how Ruoti moves from a misty melancholia to a hard-hitting celebration of uniqueness – a sign of versatility and innovativeness.
Andrew Ruoti noted that Odyssey is all about diversity and resilience, and this diversity is clearly noted in the movement from soft singles to heavier grittiness. ‘Trials and Tribulations’ and ‘Odivisha (Home)’ add a surreal haunting in their sound, while ‘Deconstruct’ showcases Andrew Ruoti’s rock side.
Eclectic, experimental and diverse are great ways to describe Odyssey, but this EP is almost indescribable. Spine-chilling and heartfelt, Odyssey is an insatiable intimate connection with listeners across the globe. I cannot wait for more from this talented artist.
For more from Andrew Ruoti check out his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
