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RubyGld Smoke Finds New Purpose With Sophomore LP ‘Our Ancestors’ Wildest Dreams’

There is a certain level of focus that comes with maturity, and for TL & Dani Jo of RubyGld Smoke, the focus has honed in on an incredibly heartfelt, soulful and unique sound heard throughout their sophomore LP, Our Ancestors’ Wildest Dreams, out November 5. The title itself immediately brings a renewed sense of purpose. For Dani Jo, it was her mother and her late uncle who inspired her to follow her dreams. “They always knew I would be singing and writing even before I really did.” For TL, it’s about carrying on an important legacy of love. “My mother and father are both musicians who are very supportive of me and what I do.”

Our Ancestors’ Wildest Dreams will be available for streaming on November 5.

Our Ancestors’ Wildest Dreams will be available for streaming on November 5.

The new album displays a renewed focus in RubyGld’s sound. Live instrumentation is the backbone of the project. Dani Jo plays bass & percussion on select tracks as TL plays guitar, bass, keys, and percussion. The album is led by the first single, “Somebody Wants Your Love,” released earlier this summer. The track is a smooth, sexy pop offering reminiscent of early Sade & late Marvin Gaye. Other notable tracks include “Higher Love,” with its internationally uplifting feel; and “Getting In Love’s Way,” a powerful ballad displaying the band’s full prowess. Fans should expect more intimate and acoustic live sets to support the new music. “We want to get closer to the fans and have more one-of-a-kind experiences with them,” says TL. “We plan on capturing those live moments as well, for they are also beautiful bodies of work people can go back and listen to and enjoy.”

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“With learning who you are, comes learning what you truly want to be remembered for.” -RubyGld Smoke

Entertaining the masses with their retro pop music and making marriage look sexy again is only a slice of what this iconic power couple has to offer. Terrance and Dani Jo Williams (RubyGld Smoke) are the entrepreneurs of Quiet Kingdom Recordings and Quiet Kingdom Media Group (film company). The duo is also the founder of Symphony Of Change Inc. – an arts education organization dedicated to equitable arts enrichment programs throughout the US. When Dandria “Dani Jo” Williams met her husband T. L. Williams in early 2014, it was clear from the jump they were made to do something big together. Their undeniable chemistry was evident even as T. L. embarked on an initial solo career, garnering over 3 million streams with hits like “Gettin Mo Money Than You” and “Melanin”. Meanwhile, Dani Jo was a behind-the-scenes contributor through the entirety of T. L.’s 6 album solo run, co-writing songs and adding vocals. The couple, feeling like it was finally time, has now come out front together with an eclectic mix of pop-soul energy a la “Rose Royce”. Fans can stream RubyGld Smoke’s debut album entitled Revolutionary Love, which was released under their label Quiet Kingdom Recordings in November 2020.

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Chicago fans have the special opportunity to attend an album release party hosted by RubyGld Smoke on November 5.

Artist Spotlight

“Pretty Ugly” by Archer Stevens stirs the soul with retro-modern rock vibes

Archer Stevens

Pretty Ugly,” the inaugural single by Archer Stevens, represents a compelling homage to the golden age of 70s rock music with a fresh coat of modern vibrancy. From the outset, the track masterfully exudes an irresistible energy that embodies vintage and contemporary influences, acting as a sonic bridge between eras. The Phoenix-based ensemble skillfully weaves their influences into a pronounced, personal narrative.

A noteworthy aspect of the track is its instrumentation. Recorded across three diverse locations, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and even Peru, the song has a global resonance. The incorporation of congas introduces a surprising layer of depth and rhythm, giving “Pretty Ugly” a distinct flair that separates it from cookie-cutter rock releases. This thoughtful musical choice enhances the song’s groove, complementing the shimmering guitar lines and soulful vocal delivery.

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Lyrically, “Pretty Ugly” plays on contrasts, embodying the emotional push and pull of life’s dualities. The heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of intimate admiration and longing to please a partner, while the melodic structure ensures the track remains uplifting despite its introspective qualities.

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By drawing inspiration from the enduring spirit of rock legends such as Elton John, Joe Cocker, and the Rolling Stones, Archer Stevens pays tribute to their predecessors without resorting to imitation. The soaring vocals and driving rhythm establish “Pretty Ugly” as a cathartic anthem that appeals to classic and contemporary rock enthusiasts. With this debut, Archer Stevens distinguishes itself as a band unafraid to experiment and honor its musical heritage, thus carving out its unique sonic identity. The result is a richly layered auditory experience that captivates from the first listen, revealing engaging narratives within the music.

 

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For more information about Archer Stevens, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Archer Stevens’ Pretty Ugly on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Archer Stevens | Instagram

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Artist Spotlight

“Do You Still Remember?” by Khynan Rhys turns heartache loss into soulful harmony

Khynan Rhys

At the age of 18, Khynan Rhy, a solo musician and multi-instrumentalist from Northwich, Cheshire, demonstrates exceptional maturity in his songwriting capabilities, indicating a wisdom that transcends his years. His sophomore single, “Do You Still Remember?” is a heart-stirring attestation to his musical aptitude and emotional profundity. It intricately weaves together a sonic narrative that encapsulates poignant lyricism, authenticity, and evocative melodies, effectively exploring the aching nostalgia of separation and longing.

Drawing on a rich palette of influences like Artemas, Daniel Caesar, and Ocean Alley, Khynan crafts a familiar sound and style that is distinctly his own. The track opens with a delicate interplay of introspective guitar melodies and ethereal synth layers, creating an atmospheric canvas that perfectly frames his soulful vocal delivery. The production, entirely helmed by Khynan and polished by Ben Booker’s mastering touch, feels intimate yet sophisticated without stripping away an ideal balance that lets the emotion shine through the song’s soulful compulsion.

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What makes “Do You Still Remember?” so captivating is its ability to resonate profoundly, transforming universal themes into specific, relatable experiences. Whether audiences are reminiscing about lost love, the bittersweet pang of first love, or confronting the emotional void left by bereavement, Khynan’s lyrics indeed hit like a gentle nudge to the heart that refuses to shy away from the deep memories of heartbreak, possessing a poetic resonance that endures long after the song ends.

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Through this second release, Khynan Rhys establishes himself as an emerging star poised for lasting impact, building upon the initial success of his debut single, ‘Closed Doors.’ He expresses emotional vulnerability that invites audiences to engage with his work. “Do You Still Remember?” offers a moment of introspective reflection on the sorrow of losing someone once deemed irreplaceable, proving that even in our most solitary experiences, music can make us feel less alone.

 

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For more information about Khynan Rhys, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Khynan Rhys’ Do You Still Remember? on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Khynan Rhys | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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