Ruler is the project of Seattle-based musician Matt Batey, who has previously been known for his work with local artists Rocky Votolato and Cataldo. Batey is releasing the debut Ruler album, Winning Star Champion, this May through Barsuk as a means of striking out on his own after spending 12 years in other bands. "Not Your Friend" doesn't appear on the tracklist for the new album but comes as one of the more than 120 songs he says nobody heard from his years making music. The song was premiered via a video featuring an out-of-focus silhouette of Batey. Winning Star Champion is out May 25. - Jasmine Albertson
Finding good new music can be a full time job, so let KEXP help! In Our Headphones brings you five song recommendations every Monday, straight from KEXP’s DJs and Music Directors. Join hosts Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili on this never-ending journey of music discovery.
Host Emily Fox and KEXP’s editorial team talk with artists about the stories behind their songs and the experiences that inform their work. Through each conversation, we uncover the humanity behind the music, allowing us to hear it in a whole new way.
