As far as male vocalists are concerned, I tend to gravitate towards singer/songwriter types with an interesting sound. You know – something unique. Something different. Now, add in some interesting production and introspective lyrics and you have the total package for me. Consider me smitten and most likely swooning. British artists like John Newman, Maverick Sabre, Sam Smith and Alex Clare have all left me weak in the knees in recent years…so it comes as no surprise to me that 24 year old British crooner Leon Else is having the same effect on me. Championed by BBC Radio 1‘s Zane Lowe as “Next Hype” Leon will release a new EP on July 8th via Skitzophonic Records, his own imprint. Lead single & title track, “River Full Of Liquor” is an absolute STUNNER of a tune. Check out the video BELOW:
The very dark video was conceptualized by Leon, who according to the press release, “draws influence from gothic biographical illustrations” as well as Tim Burton‘s signature aesthetic. Leon Else had the privilege of playing Radio 1‘s Big Weekend this year, alongside big name talent such as Katy Perry, Pharrell, and Sam Smith; surely a sign of more good things to come for this up & coming talent.
In addition to being a musical trendsetter, Leon Else has been getting noticed for his flawless fashion sense as well. Making waves earlier this year during men’s fashion week in Paris & Milan, Else was personally invited to attend by Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy as well as Emporio Armani, DSquared, and Moncler. His fashion choices landed him on style pages in both U.S. and UK GQ Magazine, which went on to name him #1 Newcomer and most stylish along with A$ap Rocky, Kanye West and Tinie Tempah.
While we wait for the full EP, let’s listen to The Jane Doze remix of Else’s first single, “Protocol” which came out in January. Also worth a listen? This gorgeous cover Leon did of Michael Jackson‘s “Billie Jean” which he recorded for BBC Radio 1Xtra’s Michael Jackson Special:
Pre-order Leon Else‘s River Full of Liquor EP: iTunes (U.S.) || iTunes (UK)
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dd4HH_WcnJw]
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