Ruthven's Rough & Ready: A Bold Fusion of R&B, Funk, and Timeless Influence

Ruthven’s Rough & Ready: A Bold Fusion of R&B, Funk, and Timeless Influence

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Ruthven, the South London musician formerly known as Sean Nelson, introduces his highly anticipated debut album Rough & Ready. Having first emerged in 2017 as part of the Paul Institute, founded by acclaimed producers A.K. and Jai Paul, Ruthven quickly caught the attention of critics and fans alike with his unique blend of future-funk and R&B. What makes Ruthven’s journey remarkable is that he began recording music while working as a firefighter in London, using moments between call-outs to craft his sound. This dedication, paired with collaborations with the likes of Sampha and Little Simz, has solidified him as an artist to watch in today’s evolving music scene.

Rough & Ready showcases Ruthven’s ability to blend classic songwriting with modern sonic landscapes. Throughout its 12 tracks, the album reflects influences from multiple genres, including jazz, yacht rock, and funk. Ruthven acknowledges the inspiration he draws from artists like Michael McDonald and Steely Dan, adding layers to his already diverse sound. At times, his music echoes the intricate funk rhythms of Prince’s early b-sides, while tracks like “Africa” from D’Angelo’s Voodoo seep through the smoky and sensual tones of the record. His ability to traverse these genres, yet maintain a cohesive narrative, elevates the listening experience into something rich and immersive.

However, the journey to completing Rough & Ready was not without challenges. Technical setbacks tested Ruthven’s resolve during the album’s creation, but his perseverance ensured that he crafted deeply personal music that remains accessible and relatable. This emotional honesty is woven into the fabric of the album, making it feel like a deeply intimate project where every note carries meaning. Tracks like “Gem Lingo (ovr now)” with Overmono showcase Ruthven’s continued experimentation with production techniques, while maintaining an organic and personal touch.

Rough & Ready places Ruthven alongside a new wave of British artists who blend modern and classic sounds. Much like Sampha and Jai Paul, who have both blurred genre lines in their music, Ruthven’s debut is an essential listen for fans of boundary-pushing music. As he forges his own path, Rough & Ready proves to be a testament to Ruthven’s evolving artistry and potential for lasting impact. The album’s fusion of timeless influences with contemporary production makes it a bold statement in today’s music landscape.


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