Ruel - Kicking My Feet

Ruel's second album, 'Kicking My Feet', is a slick, emotionally open pop record that plays to his strengths - big choruses and a willingness to be unabashedly sincere. It's polished to a shine, and while it might not push boundaries, it absolutely knows what it's doing.

Opener 'Only Ever' sets the tone, leaning into boyband-adjacent theatrics. It's catchy, if a little sentimental in places. 'Wild Guess' follows with another towering chorus, and 'When You Walk In The Room' smooths things out without losing momentum. 'I Can Die Now' adds a touch of grit with a more propulsive rhythm and sharp, percussive details.

The album's emotional arc softens as it goes, drifting into ballad territory with 'Destroyer', 'No News Is Good News' and 'Even Angels Won't'. There's no irony or detachment, just classic, full-bodied pop melodrama. It's not always the coolest move, but there's something endearing about the commitment.

'The Suburbs' is a clear standout, both in songwriting and delivery. It captures a soft longing for something simpler, with a vivid warmth. By the time the title-track arrives, a sweeping, cinematic moment, Ruel has firmly settled into his role as pop's reliable romantic. Closer 'dst' brings things to a light, playful end.

'Kicking My Feet' doesn't try to reinvent anything; it just delivers. With clarity, confidence and a stack of would-be singles, Ruel steps further into his own lane one heartfelt chorus at a time.