RUUD DUUD – My Midlife “Crisis” (Album Review)

RUUD DUUD’s debut solo album My Midlife “Crisis” is more than just a rock record; it is a deeply personal self-exploration shaped by change, uncertainty, and determination. Created in the wake of a band breakup and during the emotional upheaval of becoming a father, the album captures the raw experience of growing older while holding onto a love of music. Every riff, lyric, and production choice belongs to RUUD DUUD himself, making this not just an album, but a reflection of who he is and where he stands.

From the very first track, “I’m Over Thinking,” there’s a palpable vulnerability. The dreamy guitar tone sets the stage for lyrics about hesitation and emotional confusion. The whispered, distorted voiceover in the background adds depth and unease. This kind of layering shows a thoughtful producer at work, one who knows how to let production echo theme. The isolated vocal moment is another smart touch; it brings the listener into a more intimate space, creating tension and release.

“GRIT” is true to its name, delivering a rugged, aggressive tone that channels frustration into resolve. The use of non-singing vocal sounds, claps, shouts, percussive breath adds texture, and though the vocals themselves are often a bit loose in pitch, they carry a believable sense of effort and emotional weight. The ending chant, while lyrically repetitive, drills its message into your head and becomes an earworm through sheer insistence.

“SYNC or SINK” stands out for its mix of rock and hip hop elements, with screamed lines and rhythmic cadences driving home a sense of chaos and urgency. The lyric “drowning in the frequency” paints a vivid picture of emotional overload, and the moment where the artist commands “bring the beat back” followed by the beat’s return is a fun and effective trick that plays well on repeated listens. It’s one of the more experimental tracks that still holds together.

“Uncle Iroh” offers a sharp contrast, lighter, smoother, and thematically more optimistic. RUUD DUUD’s vocal tone fits better in this softer register, and the music seems to wrap around the words more naturally. Written with lyrics first, the song benefits from a clearer emotional structure and a stronger sense of purpose. Lines like “take some time to smell the roses as you go” feel earned, not cliché, and the upbeat guitar riffs reflect a sense of growth rather than stagnation. It’s the most polished and complete song on the album.

“TRY” dives back into murkier waters both thematically and musically. Its message is strong, urging perseverance even when light seems far away, but the execution stumbles in places. Some vocal lines feel out of sync with the rhythm, and the performance wavers in pitch. Still, the song’s heart is clear, and the intent behind it is commendable.

The album closes on a high note with “SKETCHY,” perhaps the boldest production effort here. It begins with a striking bass and drum groove that feels more modern and focused than previous tracks. The motivational voiceovers about believing in yourself work surprisingly well alongside the driving rhythm. The vocal performance is among the strongest, more confident and commanding. It is an empowering conclusion that makes the whole journey feel worthwhile.

There are technical shortcomings throughout the album, most notably in vocal control and some uneven mixing, but none of them overshadow the heart of the project. This is a record made with passion, driven by self-imposed challenges, and grounded in real life. It is refreshingly unpretentious and deeply personal, even if it occasionally overreaches its skill level.

SCORE/ Mediocre – My Midlife “Crisis” succeeds not by being flawless but by being authentic. RUUD DUUD took his uncertainty and turned it into opportunity, and the result is a creative, human, and sometimes messy collection of songs that reflect an artist still growing. That growth is exactly what makes this album worth listening to.

[We rank singles, EPs, and albums on a scale of Poor, Mediocre, Good, Excellent, and Outstanding]

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