LoveLeo returns to our blog for the first time in three years thanks to triumphant EP, Strongest Man Alive.

By Graeme Smith

Real name Leo Reilly, LoveLeo’s music appeared on our blog a couple of times back in 2021 thanks to videos BUZZCUT and TUNG TIED, the latter seeing him team up with Rico Nasty.

An artist for whom the label genre-bending was invented, his new concept EP gives us plenty of different flavours of his sound. Inspired by the self-help book Six Steps to Become The Strongest Man Alive, it tells the comedic tale of trying to obtain personal growth.

The EP is kicked off in emphatic style by Asking. A bouncy alternative electronica instrumental brings the emotion while Leo’s soft, understated vocals break our hearts. It’s the kind of track that will have you dancing with tears in your eyes. It’s a strong start.

The EP has two previously released singles – Breakfast and Big Talk. The former is a slow-burning number that hits hard through a stripped-back first verse before hitting a hyperpop stride. Its lyrics tell an amusing story of mismatched love.

Big Talk throws off insecurity with tongue-in-cheek bluster and an insatiable groove. Leo’s vocals take on a passionate, half-rapped quality in the verse before things get super catchy in the chorus. It’s a highlight.

Elsewhere Stronger rattles along with a percussive groove. Gross gives us a delicate, acoustic moment while Modern Man will get you moving. Please Hold is a short, self-affirming vignette. Salesman and Hooligan rounds off the EP with cocky dance and soulful dreaminess respectively.

It’s so great to have LoveLeo back on the blog. There’s really no-one else out there like him. He brings together disparate genres beautifully through his unique world view and pop sensibilities. His new EP is a triumph.

Strongest Man Alive is out now via GODMODE. You can give it a listen below.