On her latest album Divorce Party, songstress Ruby the RabbitFoot explores the dissolution of a relationship and her resulting recovery in song. The 10 tracks are effortlessly quirky alterna-pop, incorporating everything from handclaps to brass horns and plucked strings, all laced together by her breezy, feminine voice gliding over the instrumentation like a sprite. Even when tackling the darkness of separation, the tracks carry a buoyant and hopeful sound.  

She's currently on tour with of Montreal in support of the album, which came out in August. We got a moment with her on the road to chat about the tour, the role of magic in her life and the power of music in terms of healing and connection.

Hometown: Athens, GA

Homebase: Los Angeles, CA

Your sound seems to have evolved more on Divorce Party with less acoustic elements and fuller production — what do you attribute that to?

I’d say most of the music that I listen to — or was listening to during that period of time — was devoid of acoustic elements. I wanted to try it out.

Are the songs on Divorce Party related to an actual relationship of yours? Did tackling them in song aid in coming to terms with what had come to pass?

All of these songs are very personal and non fictional. Music always aids. Creating helps you realize your power and purpose.

What advice would you give to someone who has recently exited a long-term relationship?

I would look them deeply in the eyes and tell them not to worry one bit because this is actually the beginning and their ultimate opportunity!

Your imagery incorporates whimsy and magic. What's the importance of either?

I don't think about it that much. “Magic” has always existed for me. I wouldn’t really know its importance unless it left my side. Luckily that will never happen.

You're superstitious. What are your main superstitions? Do you see an impact on your life and creativity by paying attention to that side of things?

I believe that our actions have repercussions. Everything is connected and related. Your actions and words attract likeness to you. Being superstitious perhaps is just being cautious of what you are putting out and receiving. That being said, I believe I am most superstitious of the “knock on wood” phenomenon…. basically do not speak what you do not want. My life is definitely more positively focused because of this.

What's been a moment of recent magic in your life?

Recent magic! Well… who knows. I’m on tour with of Montreal right now. A week ago we played a venue that I have always wanted to play, basically sold out. A beautiful woman brought me flowers to the stage. Another woman screamed out the sweetest words to me. I’ve wanted to play that particular show/in that particular situation for 10 years. Right before I walked on stage I let out a mysterious “thank you” to the universe. That felt like magic. I put a blessing on that moment and invited it to happen again and again.

You have an ongoing collaboration with director Natalie Neal. How did you two meet and what works so well between you?

We met on a photoshoot for a Japanese magazine called Nero. After that she proposed a music video for me. I have always been super on board with her aesthetic. We bloomed from there. We work really well together because we assume the correct roles in production. There is complete trust and respect. When Natalie says jump, I jump.

What are your goals as a musician? Both in the present, near future and further ahead?

Right now I am focused on becoming a better live performer. Touring is challenging and rewarding. I learn a lot about existence because I am stripped from any attachment or comfort of home and routine. It feels like musician’s boot camp. I want my voice to grow. I want to keep making records and connecting with others through the music.