Calm Controller

“How are you going to change the world?” —Dahhm Life, “Spirituali”

Most people don’t have the tenacity to take steps towards changing the world, but Dominic Ruiz isn’t most people. In his music, there’s an underlying theme that screams “make a difference” and he’s doing just that. 
“My music will always be honest,” Ruiz says. “I'm a real person.  I'm not perfect, but I do have something to say. I'm not afraid to create songs other emcees might be afraid to make. I'll always make songs that reflect my personal struggles and successes. The world is not an easy place to live at times, but we all have the power to change what's wrong. We also deserve to celebrate what's right.”
The Albuquerque, New Mexico native has been making underground hip-hop for the past several years under the moniker “Dahhm Life.” When he was a young child, Ruiz gravitated towards the music of A Tribe Called Quest, Ice Cube, The Roots, De La Soul, and Gang Starr. It helped shape his personal musical style and gave him the courage to pursue the craft. 
“I love that Hip-Hop is inclusive,” he says. “The culture and the history are easy to identify with for me. It's like a metaphor for my childhood.”
After many years of jumping from project to project, Ruiz joined hip-hop band Zoology as an emcee and drummer in 2008. The group quickly garnered a significant local fan base and became synonymous with high-energy, polished performances. Sharing the stage with artists like Souls of Mischief, Blackalicious and Talib Kweli kept opening doors for Ruiz. 
2011’s Play With Your (Knowledge Of) Self [Skull Control Records] was the first actual attempt at a solo album. Zoology’s Krush Love was released on Skull Control/Jivin Music that same year. However, bubbling beneath the surface, he craved his own creative outlet, one that was his and his alone. Ruiz released Spirituali in 2013 under his own imprint, Real Renaissance Recordings. He wrote and produced most of the songs while expecting his first child, an event that really made him slow down, knowing every decision he made could affect the life of his family. 
“I never actually had a plan before,” he says. “Now I have it mapped out. I have to take my plans with music as far as I can to show my kids they can do the same.”
With guest spots from Qwazaar of Typical Cats, fellow Albuquerque artists Wake Self and Def-I, and Sleep of Oldominion, Spirituali demands a listen. Ruiz bobs and weaves his way through each verse with Muhammad Ali-like precision. On standout tracks like “Life Is” and “Above,” his brilliant social commentary and intense introspection radiates messages of positivity and resilience. 
“Life hasn't been easy for me,” he says. “Everyone should know there are people out there who relate to all aspects of their story.”

If the future of Hip-Hop sounds like this, welcome Dahhm Life with open arms.


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