Jennie - Ruby Album Review
by Abhilasha Bhattarai | March 7th, 2025
K-pop superstars BLACKPINK stunned fans when the quartet renewed their contracts with YG Entertainment whilst pursuing their solo careers. Yet, their decisions to work individually before returning as a group appears to be paying off. JENNIE, born Jennie Kim, is the last member of the group to drop a full-length solo album, “Ruby”. The record marks a striking evolution, blending a singer-songwriter sensibility with sleek, retro-inspired R&B reminiscent of SZA’s recent work. Jennie leans into restraint and introspection for much of the album, offering moments of vulnerability that rarely surfaced in her group projects.
The album starts with a dreamy intro called “Intro: Jane with FKJ.” With simple lyrics that keep repeating, angelic vocals, and humming, this intro feels like a lullaby that will ease you into a wonderland. The instrumental left quite a striking influence due to the fact that the producer/composer of the song, FKJ, is a French multi-instrumentalist.
Transitioning to“like JENNIE”, a track that serves as the album's defining moment. Produced by the Grammy-winning DJ and producer Diplo and co-written by the talented Zico, this song is a self-referential anthem that amplifies Jennie's star power. The full Korean rap in the second verse is the standout feature of this song, paying homage to her roots in K-pop and her position in BLACKPINK as the main rapper. The song's quick start, launching straight into the chorus after just ten seconds, is a testament to Jennie's unmatched confidence.
Switching gears to “start a war” brings back the dreamy melancholic sounds first introduced in the intro. With beautifully layered harmonies and soft falsetto, bringing a refreshing SZA-like vibe to the record with the slowed R&B prescussive elements and the subtle electric guitar, the song's mood fits incredibly well. Lyrically, it stands out on the album, with compelling and alluring lyrics about a toxic love that’s both destructive and irresistible. However, the song is continuously built without a proper climax, preventing it from reaching its full emotional impact.
“Handlebars” featuring Dua Lipa is a captivating, feel-good summer anthem. The bassline creates a funky, pulsating beat that exudes a carefree energy, as Jennie sings “I heard that fools rush in / That’s me,” capturing the enthralling feeling of falling in love too fast. The chemistry between Jennie and Dua is irresistible, their voices intertwining seamlessly like a duet. It’s a track designed to be blasted with the windows down—effortless, confident, and infectious, leaving you uplifted.
Produced by the iconic Kpop hitmaker Dem Jointz, “with the IE (way up)” brings a hip-hop into the record, with a bouncy beat and presumptuous lyrics, this song has one of the most addictive choruses on the album. With nods to J.LO’s “Jenny from the block”, “with IE (way up)” has a rhythmic delivery with a fun and dynamic flare, this song seems to be a fan favorite amongst long-time Jennie and Blackpink fans.
“ExtraL” (feat.Doechii) is a testament to the power of collaboration. Docheii’s fast-paced verse is captivating and electrifying, and Jennie matches her energy with her own verses and chorus. The production is sharp—stuttering hi-hats, aggressive bass, and a distorted vocal loop create a controlled chaos. Jennie’s delivery alternates between playful taunts and rapid-fire rap, proving she can hold her own alongside a powerhouse collaborator.
Composed by hitmaker Billy Walsh, “Mantra” is a sleek, confident hymn that appears to be designed for striding down a runway. It has pristine production, a bouncy bass, and tension-building claps. Jennie's vocals are controlled and enticing, making the ultimate transition into the chorus even more enjoyable. The clever statement, "Pretty girls don't do drama, unless we wanna," makes it memorable. Mantra is anthemic, full of confidence, and incredibly infectious.
“Love Hangover (feat. Dominic Fike)” is Jennie's most genuine, R&B-influenced vocal performance. Fike's influence is evident in the calm, guitar-driven sound, which exudes a breezy, late-night drive vibe. Jennie seems at ease here—her voice glides throughout the tune, and the melodies are among the album's best. It's a tune that becomes deeper with each hearing.
“ZEN”'s production is industrial, minimal, and hypnotic, focusing on tension. Built on loud stomps and metallic percussion, Jennie's distant, almost robotic voice adds to the track's spooky vibe. While fascinating, it feels like an interlude rather than a wholly developed song.
“Mike WiLL Made-It produced Damn Right” (feat. Childish Gambino & Kali Uchis) and exudes '90s R&B nostalgia, enabling each artist to showcase their flair. Jennie's milder vocal tone drifts over the beat, seamlessly transitioning into Kali Uchis' distinctive breathy delivery,
“F.T.S.” is one of the most rebellious moments on 'Ruby', representing Jennie's direct reaction to scrutiny, criticism, and public expectations. Over minimal, creepy synthesizers, she delivers a cutting performance that combines revolt and tiredness. The song is a cathartic outpouring, combining fury with empowerment to create one of the album's most emotionally powerful and inspiring moments.
“Filter” is a contemplative track. The production is initially understated, with quiet synthesizers and a steady pace that eventually builds. The highlight point occurs in the second half, when the tempo speeds up, adding urgency to the song's message. Jennie's lyrics, "I love me more… with no filter," emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and sincerity.
“Seoul City” is one of Ruby's most evocative paintings, serving as a love letter to the city and a reflection on Jennie's identity. Produced by Mike WiLL Made-It, the tune combines melancholy synthesizers, a deep bass beat, and layered voice effects to create a dramatic sense. Her subdued, almost whispered vocal delivery allows the production to carry much of the song's tone.
“Starlight” is a song that embodies contrasts. It begins as a quiet, melancholic ballad before transitioning into an energetic, percussion-heavy rhythm. This sudden shift in tone keeps the music engaging, although the melodies may not be as memorable as the album's standout tracks. While it may not shine as brightly as its more powerful counterparts, it adds to the album's thematic diversity.
“Ruby”'s closing track, “Twin”, is one of the album's most intimate and heartbreaking moments. It stands out for its rawness, built around an acoustic guitar and minimal instruments. Jennie's vocals take center stage with a slight country tinge, conveying warmth and honesty. Lyrically, “twin” reads like a letter to a former love or close friend, commenting on the intricacies of human connections. Ruby ends on a melancholy, contemplative note—quiet, very intimate, and undoubtedly moving.
