Midnight in the City packs a punch from the very first note and leaves some bruises, even after the album’s over—but they’re the kind you brag about proudly. This latest offering from L.A.-based rock quartet the Ruse is a thrill-packed night on the town, filled with effortless hooks that frontman John Dauer delivers with flawless execution.
City has an epic vibe, in a U2 or Coldplay kind of way, with expansive, arena-ready guitars and intricate yet driving rhythms that keep you rapt in the moment while simultaneously fixating your attention on the cutting lyrics. Case in point: In “Monochrome,” Dauer blasts: “It feels so good not to need you / But it’s so sad to watch you fall / ’Cause I took it all.” Consider this a City worth the trip—just make sure you’re ready to rumble. —BW
