Ruel, born Ruel Vincent van Dijk, is a British-Australian singer-songwriter who burst onto the scene as a young prodigy. Since his debut in 2017, Ruel has garnered over 2 billion streams worldwide and has been recognised by industry giants like Elton John and Shawn Mendes.

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Known for his soulful voice and emotional depth, Ruel has quickly risen to become one of the most promising young talents in the global pop scene. His debut album, 4th Wall, marks a significant milestone in his career, blending personal introspection with cinematic storytelling.

4TH WALL is Ruel's debut studio album, released in March 2023, and it’s a deeply personal and cinematic journey through his experiences over the past few years. The album’s title references the concept of breaking the "fourth wall" in film and theatre—a metaphor for Ruel’s exploration of his own reality, much like the characters in his favourite films The Truman Show and Fight Club. The album was conceptualised during a reflective period in Bali after Ruel came off tour, where he began to view his life as a series of surreal scenes in a movie.

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Throughout 4th Wall, Ruel delves into themes of self-discovery, growing up, and the complexities of relationships. The album's opening track, "Go On Without Me," sets the stage with its blend of upbeat 80s pop sounds and introspective, sometimes melancholic lyrics—a pattern that continues throughout the album. Songs like "I Don’t Wanna Be Like You" and "You Against Yourself" showcase Ruel's ability to express frustration and anger, adding a gritty edge to the album's emotional landscape.

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Ruel’s collaboration with producers like M-Phazes and Sammy Witte brings a polished yet authentic feel to the record, allowing his voice to shine through whether he’s navigating upbeat pop anthems or more introspective ballads. Tracks like "Let the Grass Grow" and "Growing Up Is____" capture the emotional highs and lows of young adulthood, with the latter exploring the inevitable struggles of maturing and finding one’s identity.

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The album's closer, "End Scene," brings the narrative full circle, tying together the cinematic themes with a reflective tone that leaves listeners with a sense of closure, yet also longing for more. The album's production, lyrical depth, and thematic coherence make 4th Wall a standout debut, offering a mix of relatable emotions and artistic growth.

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You can listen to 4TH WALL on Spotify & Apple Music