Album Review: Ruby Francis Discovers Herself in Pages of Philosophy EP

I can't imagine what it's like to be an artist in the UK - a super inspiring scene, especially in the urban & electronic genres, but with so much competition, too.

Yet, somehow, Ruby Francis stands out in the neo-soul/r&b lane with her honesty, huskiness, warmth & vocals that make everything feel alright. The London singer just unveiled her new 7-track EP, Pages of Philosophy, and I'd highly encourage you to embark on this journey.

What really impressed me was that Ruby produced this all by herself in her bedroom studio (the C-line even says Ruby's Bedroom Records, which I found adorable) and carries a number of surprises, sound-wise (I'll go over that in a sec).

Thematically, Pages of Philosophy is centered around Ruby's self-discovery, revisiting the ups & downs in life - and how each experience has helped her grow. The title comes from her interest in psychology & philosophy, which she used to go deeper into her consciousness & find inspiration for the lyrics & music.

“I really had to embrace my darker parts of my Self and “go to tea with my demons”. It’s only when you bring the darkness to the light that things aren’t so scary anymore. I really felt I had to face my existential dread and who I may be without the identity of a “partner,” she shares.

Sonically, Pages of Philosophy isn't your ordinary neo-soul/r&b EP. Itbegins with a dreamy intro with a cinematic touch, preparing us for the fabulous journey ahead.

The following songs (which were also upfront singles) - "Helicopter" and the title track, both envelop you with warmth, although in a different manner. While the former has a driving, raw drum groove, juxtaposed with soft keys & soothing vocals, "Pages of Philosophy" shows that Ruby feels incredibly comfortable in slow-burner neo-soul songs.

I think it's safe to say that the middle tune, "Y U Always On My Mind?" is the one that will get you out of your sweet daydreaming, induced by the first half of the project. Carrying Kaytranada-like electronic grooves, rawer sound & sampling, it steers away from the expected dreamy sound of neo-soul.

The next tune, "A Hug (Flowery Pants)," gave me strong Hiatus Kaiyote x Taylor McFerrin vibes. A trippy tune built upon overlapping female/male vocals, pulsating synths, and guitar lines to die for at the end.

Of course, Ruby won't leave us hanging, and she does deliver more smooth soulful tunes - "Back 2 Myself" might be the most "classical" of the 2nd half, but that shouldn't stop you from checking it out. Especially because of the drum switch in the chorus. It was also the 2nd upfront single, which I completely get why.

I really like how the EP ends - with "Lanzarote". You might think the final tune should sound more like an outro, whereas Ruby wraps up the story with a solid groove & psychedelic vocals, inevitably leaving you longing for more.

Pages of Philosophy is an unexpected ride through a variety of genres & influences, and I must say that we should be happy that there are artists who don't shy away from experimenting in the r&b/neo-soul space.