Combining a rich and effortlessly digestible instrumental apparatus with a writing sensibility that’s effortlessly evocative while still being open and personable, Leo Nazz announces himself with a self-titled record that has you drawn in to its multitude of stories and sincerity within them all.
The five-track EP is a reflection of Nazz’s personal journey as he navigates through a breakup and relationship conflicts, while also delving into themes of being a single parent as well as navigating life within mental illnesses and more.
The EP’s first single, “I Wanted to be Honest,” sets the tone for the rest of the record with its raw and honest lyrics and smooth guitar melodies, a smooth and effortless listening experience for even the most casual of listeners. With a sonic sensibility that traverses realms of folk alongside a more soulful core, Leo Nazz never once seems to bore the listener across the record. The record’s opening track explores the theme of vulnerability and the courage to be truthful in a relationship, while the second single, “It Feels Like,” delves into the pain and confusion of a broken heart.
One of the highlights of the EP is the bonus track, “I Don’t Mind,” a beautiful and emotive monologue that serves as a powerful ode to the end of a relationship. The track’s soothing harmonica and heartfelt lyrics are a fitting end to the EP, which is an emotional and cathartic journey.
The production on the EP is top-notch, with smooth guitars and soothing harmonica that provide a comforting backdrop to Nazz’s raw and emotive vocals. The production was done by Iggy Torres of Sun Traitors and features guitars from psych-folk-blues singer/songwriter Dom Brinkley. There’s a distinctly unique interplay between these instrumental choices that feels keenly classical in choice but strangely contemporary in feel and execution. In effect, you find yourself eerily drawn to Leo Nazz’s stylistic adventures from a sonic standpoint while also endeared by the sheer sincerity he brings to his lyrics. There’s so much vulnerability across this record that you find yourself falling deeper and deeper into his journey.
“it feels like” has long since been a song I adored, and it hits all that much stronger on the record as a part of the larger puzzle.
Leo Nazz’s self-titled debut EP is a powerful and personal debut that showcases the artist’s unique voice and emotive songwriting. It’s a collection of songs that will resonate with listeners on a personal level, and it’s clear that Nazz has poured his heart and soul into this record.
A vivid exploration of personal struggles that’s clear in its vulnerability and endearing in its sincerity.