White Denim’s Song “Ruby” Pays Homage to Rock ‘n Roll History
White Denim, fronted by James Petralli, is set to release their latest album, titled 13, on April 24, 2026, through Bella Union. This new album promises to combine elements of Rock, Funk, Calypso, Soul, and more. As a preview of the album, Petralli recently unveiled the track “Ruby” alongside a live performance video.
The band has also revealed a series of upcoming tour dates that will take them across the country, with stops in cities such as Denver, Seattle, Atlanta, Cleveland, Portland, Los Angeles, and many more.
Reflecting on the creation of “Ruby,” Petralli shared his experiences:
“I wrote a version of ‘Ruby’ a few years back, and the melody would occasionally resurface in my mind. After coming across some old cassette recorders at a flea market, I was inspired by the warbled audio, reminiscent of The Rolling Stones’ ‘Street Fighting Man,’ which fueled my production of the song. I find joy in connecting my work with the history of rock and roll, not as a purist, but as a way to create something new that represents my friends and me.”
Embodying the band’s longstanding adventurous spirit since their inception in Austin, Texas, two decades ago, the new album delves into themes of power, generational cycles, abuse, shame, violence, and resilience. It also emphasizes the importance of family and artistic freedom.
The significance of the album’s title, “13,” is multifaceted. Aside from being Petralli’s birth date, the number holds symbolic value throughout the album, representing independence, creativity, and a strong foundation. However, it also carries connotations of chaos and misfortune, adding complexity to the overall narrative. Notably, “13” marks the band’s thirteenth studio album.
In addition to the album release, White Denim has announced an extensive list of tour dates, spanning across various cities in the United States and the United Kingdom. From intimate venues to music festivals, the band is set to bring their unique blend of genres and energetic performances to fans around the globe.
Fans can catch White Denim live at venues such as The Velvet Elk in Boulder, Colorado, Mississippi Studios in Portland, Oregon, and The Chapel in San Francisco, California. The tour will also include stops in the UK, with shows in Belfast, Dublin, Glasgow, Newcastle, Leeds, Bristol, Brighton, Manchester, and London, among others.
With a rich musical history and a commitment to pushing boundaries, White Denim continues to captivate audiences with their diverse sound and thought-provoking lyrics. The release of their upcoming album, “13,” and the accompanying tour dates are sure to solidify their status as one of the most innovative and dynamic bands in contemporary music.