Photo Credit: Amanda Adam
In the tumultuous voyage we call life, adversity often strikes without warning, testing the resilience of our minds, hearts, and souls. It demands that we gather every ounce of strength to keep pushing forward. Such is the story Kaleb Rudy presents to us today, a harrowing tale of sorrow and misfortune, of facing adversity head-on, battling addiction, and ultimately emerging victorious through the transformative power of love.
Born and raised in the quaint town of Grand Junction, Colorado, Kaleb Rudy’s journey was far from ordinary. His nomadic childhood saw him traversing the landscapes of Virginia, Montana, Iowa, and California, all before the tender age of 12. The backdrop of small rural towns and his father’s profession as a Christian pastor created a challenging environment for Kaleb’s emerging bisexual identity.
Amidst the turmoil, he found solace in artistic expression, embracing a myriad of outlets that would later converge into his magnum opus. From the melodic strains of songwriting to the captivating realms of acting and filmmaking, Kaleb’s passions became one on his debut audiovisual EP, “My Own Volition.”
The album is a notable entry into the indie pop scene, characterized by its introspective and emotional storytelling. The project stands out not only for its musical quality but also for its music videos in the purest cinematographic style, each of which narrates part of a love story between two drifters. Directed by Kaleb Rudy himself and co-starring alongside actor M. Taylor Hall, the five audiovisual pieces that make up the album help listeners immerse themselves in the heartbreaking story that the artist wants to deliver.
Citing Jewel’s seminal album “Pieces of You” as a formative influence, Kaleb’s music keeps traditional ballads at its core while dwelling a diverse tapestry of sounds. The album begins with “Eighteen“, an upbeat and fun pop that leads listeners to remember the freedom and lack of responsibility of youth and young loves. The single “Tornado (Lie With Me)” is a song whose musicalization captures and reflects the fine line between the tension, excitement, and fear inherent in falling in love. Other notable tracks are the hypnotic and heartbreaking “Selfish,” and the passionate and beautiful “Mess” which serve as poignant reminders of the EP’s overarching narrative – a difficult journey exposing the very core of Kaleb’s soul for all to witness.
The enchanting “Lot’s Wife” reaches celestial heights, accompanied by a church organ and chamber choirs. It’s a song loaded with drama, both in its lyrics and in its production. The lyrics take us through a nostalgic and emotional journey, exploring memories of love and meaningful moments that seem as vivid as they are painful and accompanied by a church-style piano.
In Kaleb Rudy’s words, this EP was born from a desire to follow his instincts without external influences, so, feeling unfulfilled by trying to cater to popular trends, he decided to focus on his own artistic vision.
“My Own Volition was born out of wanting to follow my instincts without outside influence. I felt I’d lost my way by trying to figure out what people wanted to hear rather than what I wanted to say. I think it’s easy to get caught up in that game. What’s in? What would get me playlisted? Approaching music that way was so unfulfilling.”
Through this EP, Kaleb Rudy bares his soul, sharing his struggles, triumphs, and the transformative power of love in overcoming adversity. In a world where hardships often seem insurmountable, Kaleb’s story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to find their own strength and embrace their true selves. His story displays raw authenticity, a vulnerability that transcends the boundaries of genre and style, forging a connection with listeners who have faced their own battles.
For those who have felt like outcasts, battling their own demons and struggling to find acceptance, Kaleb Rudy’s music offers a shared experience, a reminder that they are not alone. His vulnerability and honesty create a safe space where listeners can find solace, understanding, and ultimately, the courage to embrace their own truths. Kaleb’s music resonates with a universal message: even in the darkest of times, hope and love will always prevail.
