There was a time in popular music where versatility proved the key ingredient to many artist's success. But somewhere along the way, versatility took a back seat to predictability. That's where Ruben Angel comes to the rescue. Few artists of modern times are as musically talented and have the full package as this San Diego by way of Argentina native, as evidenced by his forthcoming debut full length, "Red." "I can appreciate all kinds of music," explains the multi-instrumental musician, who lists singing, guitar, bass, drums, software drum programming, keyboard, piano, and alto saxophone on his musical resume. "I'm kind of all over the board when it comes to what the music scene is. I'm happy doing every element, whether it be composing, arranging, transcribing music, performing, producing, and engineering." The forthcoming "Red" will certainly be one of the more musically varied albums to hit the pop-rock world in a very long time. "I have a lot of rock, pop, and dance songs in my catalogue. I have some really poppy songs on my album, and then I have some songs that are way darker and a fusion of my sounds" that's where my Bowie influence comes from. Some songs that are more electro rock are "So Sweet" and "Masquerade." Another hip fusion song is "Stereo is Dead," it's probably my "main driver" on the album, because it combines electro dance beats and classical rock guitar. I have a song called "Mourning Star," and it's a 45-piece orchestra arrangement featuring robust soaring vocals. It's one of those big, epic, movie soundtrack, songs."
And while Angel makes no bones about his love for the studio, it's on the concert stage where you'll experience Ruben's theatrics, choreographed dance, and a good old fashioned rockin' time. "My band was guitar, bass, drums, and vocals, that's it. Now, I'm dealing with all sorts of complications! I've got like twelve synth tracks, four different drums sets. I can't have like twenty people on stage. I have to consolidate all my numbers down. So right now, my band consists of four great musicians. I have a guitarist, a keyboardist, A DJ, and I play bass on some songs, and, of course sing." With "Red" on the horizon, Angel is setting up to unleash one heck of an unforgettable debut. And the fact that he has found himself on the ballot for the 2008 Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, and Best Pop Vocal Album shows that breakthrough success is lurking right around the corner.But according to the artist himself, this is only the beginning. "Eventually, I want to do a Spanish album" I feel like my Latin culture has had such an influence on me. I would like my music to be considered internationally marketable. This first album though I'm gearing more towards to the American crowd. I'm also writing an opera right now. I have a lot of music that lends itself to the older demographic - more refined and classically-oriented stuff. Eventually, I want to have one of the best recording studio in the world , where I can work with my inspirations, and with up-and coming talent. Besides performing, my biggest passions are - sound engineering and production.- Be certain to keep an eye out for Ruben Angel from here on out - it's bound to be one mighty wild ride.....
