On his new single, “Ruiner,” rapper, singer, and songwriter nothing, nowhere. showcases his eclecticism, potential, and promise as an artist.  

Nothing, nowhere. is an eclectic, up-and-comer in the music game.  Multi-talented, Joe Mulherin is a rapper, singer, and songwriter.  Perhaps he is best classified as an alternative musician, for lack of a better characterization.  His new single, “Ruiner,” paints an accurate picture of the type of artist he is, for those unfamiliar as of yet.

“Ruiner” opens with a subtle groove, before guitar-driven, pop-rock oriented production enters the picture.  Nothing, nowhere. serves up agile rhymes.  Unsurprisingly, it only takes two lines before the obligatory f-bomb enters the picture.

“It’s the young Edgar Allan spitting live from the basement / Do it for the love, give a fuck about the payment.”

At least he’s passionate. A bridge (functioning as the pre-chorus) precedes the chorus.  The sound is more of a melodic, pop-rap sound, contrasting the straight rhymes of the preceding verse.  It’s followed by a fully melodic chorus, which is a welcome contrast to the rhymes.  The chorus isn’t the most memorable ever, but Nothing, nowhere. is on the right track.

“Oh no, what’s your mama gonna say / When I tell her that I broke your heart? / It’s just things aren’t the way that they used to be / Oh no, now you’re crying on the bathroom floor / And I guess it’s the end / Well I lost my mind, then I lost my best friend.”

The second verse is more of the same – quick rhymes, another f-bomb, and an assertive approach.  “Seems like every time I leave I end up thinking of us / I keep fucking with your head like a lobotomy / I lost it all and you’ll always be a part of me.” A completely different bridge comes along, preceding the final chorus.

Final Thoughts 

How does “Ruiner” stack up?  Nothing, nowhere. has his share of moments.  The pop-rock backdrop is a selling point, particularly behind his pointed rhymes.  His ability to float between rap, pop-rap, and singing is also a pro.  That considered, “Ruiner” isn’t quite a homerun.  The potential, as well as the vibe is ripe, while the execution is close, if it falls just a hair short.  Pleasant and promising, it’ll be interesting seeing the continual growth of this talented artist.

Nothing, nowhere. • Ruiner – Single • Fueled by Ramen • Release: 2.16.18

Photo Credit: Fueled by Ramen