Ruby

Ruby, released in 2018, marks Macy Gray's tenth studio outing and a significant pivot back to high-gloss production following the minimalist jazz experiment of 2016's Stripped. Recorded across several high-profile studios in California and Sweden, the album represents a collaborative effort with producers like Johan Carlsson and Tommy Brown. Sonically, it is a 'jewel' of a record - tightly arranged, rich in texture, and leaning heavily into neo-soul and funk while maintaining a light, pop-adjacent touch. The album is notable for its thematic breadth, ranging from the spiritual introspection of 'Buddha' to the sharp social commentary of 'White Man'. Critics noted that Gray sounds more 'joyful and enthusiastic' here than on previous efforts, with the arrangements allowing her distinctive vocal rasp to shine without being overwhelmed by the instrumentation. It stands as a late-career highlight that successfully bridges her eccentric soul roots with a contemporary, polished aesthetic.