Rubygld Smoke Empowers Listeners to Live with ‘No Filter’ on their Confidence-Boosting New Album

Rubygld Smoke’s third album No Filter, out July 8, is categorically compelling in every way. From the first song off of the record, “Power,” the Chicago-based duo sets a refreshingly unapologetic tone. In nine tracks, singers Dani Jo and T.L. Williams find inventive ways to infuse earworm-worthy hooks and infectious melodies wherever they can. From, “No Comparison,” a groove-heavy number about moving forward from past relationships more confident, to “Can’t See Us,” a brash track with a driving rhythm and inspirational message to “Water,” a silky-smooth song about persevering through fear, the duo was intentional about highlighting their authentic selves in an aspirational format.

Inspired by legends like the Neptunes, Timbaland and Missy Elliott and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Williams explains that at the end of the day, they “had one criterion for this album: make them move!” By offering listeners flavour, candid lyricism and slick production elements, No Filter is easily empowering and a considerable demonstration of the duo’s raw talent.

Aside from proving their musical chops once again, Rubygld Smoke explains that the record was also inspired by their venture into the world of e-commerce. “No Filter is the soundtrack to who we are as a couple, individually and as entrepreneurs. It is also a nod to the launch of our newest venture Shateria Beauty. Shateria Beauty is an online natural hair care company that delivers wash-day boxes directly to customers. Filling a niche in the market, the duo are already seeing promising strides for their company. The two share that Shateria Beauty recently partnered with Amazon’s Black Business Accelerator program and is set to be featured in the virtual marketplace of Essence Festival’s Beauty Carnival this year. “It’s essential that we say how we feel, love our skin, hair, culture and do what we love to the fullest,” Dani Jo says.

“Often, people put a filter on life and experiences because of fear of being judged. This album empowers listeners to be confident, take risks and most of all be themselves.”

Cover art for ‘No Filter’ by Rubygld Smoke