Just Leila is an artist who has just come to my attention thanks to her debut EP. Released today to coincide with her birthday, it’s something of a gift to herself, creating a world in which she can get lost (and so can we). It’s called just for me.

By Graeme Smith

Having grown up in Morocco, Leila emigrated to the USA, bringing with her a cultural blend of Arabic Moroccan, French and English. Now based in New York City, she arrived there via travels around the world, with only her musical instruments as company.

She describes her debut EP as a “safe space” in which she can express herself and it opens with bits of pieces. An understated yet funky rhythm greets us before Leila’s characterful vocals come in. Soft and lilting, they possess a hidden strength, and relay image-full lyrics. It all comes together into a rich and engaging rhythm that welcomes us to her unique world.

Bébé is a track that brings to mind the ’60s alternative scene. Empowering lyrics are sung in French, casting aside unwanted opinions. Don’t be alarmed is stripped back and atmospheric before arriving at a dark, descriptive story backed by moody electronica. More than dna is a track that transports you and speaks of superficiality and stereotype. Its cathartic, textured chorus a highlight.

Ché pas is twinkling and experimental, with chanting, philosophical lyrics. Definitely listen with headphones to get the full effect of it. Desert song gives us layers of vocals and a tremendous sense of place and movement. Title track just for me closes the EP with a short composition that leaves it all out there. Spoken word vocals provide a sense of intimacy.

We’re honoured that Just Leila has shared her world with us and her debut EP is a wonderfully innovative and honest collection.

Just for me was written, produced and performed by Just Leila. You can give it a listen below.