Ruger’s sophomore album, BlownBoy Ru, is a bold statement of his musical versatility. After leaving Jonzing World, the pressure was on for the artist to prove he could stand on his own, and he tested the waters with a joint project alongside BNXN. Now, with this album, Ruger attempts to show that he can master multiple genres, but the result is a project that, while promising, lacks the cohesion needed to make a lasting impact.
From the very beginning, Ruger establishes his confidence with an album opener that introduces his dancehall influences, complete with chest-thumping beats and bold swagger. Ruger’s talent for experimenting with various genres is evident as he flows through dancehall, R&B, Afrobeats, and even drill-inspired sounds. However, while individual tracks shine, the album as a whole struggles to present a clear sonic identity. The first few tracks seem disconnected, with the shift from dancehall to drill to R&B feeling jarring at times.
On tracks like “Muah (Sometimes)” and “Giveaway,” Ruger’s ability to craft addictive melodies is on full display, and he holds his own alongside notable figures like Zlatan. However, these moments often fade into each other without creating a cohesive listening experience. The album picks up momentum in its latter half, where Ruger’s R&B leanings shine through. Songs like “Wish You Well” and the emotionally charged “Toro” showcase his vocal range and emotional depth, solidifying Ruger’s strength as an artist.
Despite these high points, the album’s sequencing leaves much to be desired. The lack of continuity and identity causes some tracks to feel like isolated hits rather than part of a well-curated body of work. BlownBoy Ru is full of moments that highlight Ruger’s versatility, but the album struggles to tie them together in a way that creates a satisfying journey for listeners.
The final track, “Hell Cat,” brings Ruger back to his boastful, unapologetic persona, reminding fans why he’s such a compelling figure in the industry. However, as a whole, BlownBoy Ru remains a collection of promising tracks that ultimately don’t come together as a fully realized album.
While Ruger proves his ability to navigate multiple genres, the album’s lack of identity and structural flaws prevent it from reaching its full potential. Ruger has the talent, but he still needs to find the right balance to harness it effectively in a cohesive project.
