Australian singer-songwriter Ruel has spent the past few years blending pop melodies with a distinctive rock-esque twist that has set his music apart from the mainstream. His unique sound, marked by smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, continues to evolve, and his latest single, “Made it Awkward,” is a testament to this growth.
Earlier this year, Ruel released two collaborations with indie rock trio DMA’S—“What a Life” and “We’re a Pair of Diamonds”—both of which showcased his ability to seamlessly merge pop with an indie rock edge. But it was in October that Ruel took his sound in a bold new direction with the release of “Cats on the Ceiling,” a track that quickly racked up over one million streams, and his cover of Sabrina Carpenter’s “santa doesn’t know you like i do” for Apple Music’s Carols Covered campaign. With each new release, Ruel demonstrates a growing confidence in his artistry and an undeniable knack for crafting unforgettable tunes.
“Made it Awkward” is perhaps Ruel’s most emotionally vulnerable song yet, tapping into the rawness of unrequited love and the awkwardness that follows when we try sometimes clumsily to patch things up. The song’s theme is universal: who hasn’t found themselves in a situation where they’ve confessed their feelings, only to watch them fall flat, leaving behind that familiar feeling of regret? Ruel captures that moment with pinpoint accuracy, turning an all-too-familiar heartbreak into a sonic experience that listeners can’t help but connect with.
The track itself is a guitar-driven masterpiece. Layered with both acoustic and electric guitars, the song pulses with a gritty energy that matches the song’s emotional intensity. The drums and synths add depth to the arrangement, creating a dynamic soundscape that amplifies the sense of unease and longing. But it’s Ruel’s voice that truly carries the track, as it is both powerful and delicate, conveying a perfect balance of vulnerability and strength. His vocals soar through the chorus, amplifying the emotional weight of the lyrics: “I thought I could make it right, but I only made it awkward.” It’s a simple but profoundly relatable sentiment.
Ruel also recently debuted a new look, ditching his signature long hair for a buzzcut. This change in appearance feels symbolic, a visual representation of the evolution happening in his music. Is this the start of a new era for the artist? It certainly feels that way. As his sound matures and his songwriting deepens, fans can only speculate about what’s next for the young musician who, after years of success, seems to be just getting started.