Get To Know Get To Know… Leyma

Sharing his new project ‘Tomorrow’s Almost Over’ today, meet the rising lo-fi artist.

7th August 2020

Hello and welcome to DIY’s introducing feature, Get To Know… getting you a little bit closer to the buzziest new acts that have been catching our eye as of late, and working out what makes them tick.

Recently we’ve met rising Manchester pop star Phoebe Green, bedroom-pop newbie Oscar Welsh, Kansas-based leftfield pop maestro Jordana, Arkansas duo joan, and now we’re catching up with East London lo-fi artist Leyma.

Sharing his latest project ‘Tomorrow’s Almost Over’ today, Leyma - aka Max Hanley - explains, “This EP is an introduction project to the three different sides of Leyma that explore different soundscapes and overarching messages; The Lovr (blissfully living in ignorance and naivety of the world), The Worst (the darker, more sceptical and pessimistic side) and The Wise (the calm and composed). All the sides of Leyma are sides of me, which now after creating the characters and disconnecting ‘Max Hanley’ from ‘Leyma’ has given me a lot of freedom creatively. I can explore different sounds and stories of my experiences, without holding any personal attachment to the songs, which has made this EP, so sick and enjoyable to create.”

We sent him over some qs to find out a little bit more…

Describe your music to us in the form of a tinder bio.
“you may or may not be disappointed”

What’s your earliest musical memory?
Sitting in the front seat of our car with mum, must’ve been about 4 driving past Hackney Marshes listening Nina Simone, Here Comes The Sun. Had that one on repeat after that.

Who were some artists that inspired you when you were just starting out (and why)?
Tame Impala. When I found out Kevin Parker produced it all and that it became feasible to just do it yourself. That was the main reason I started working and saving up to buy a Mac and start writing really. Musically I took a lot from Mac Miller. Devine Feminine was, and is one of my favourite albums. Then lyrically Peep inspired me to be open about emotions and touchy things that’s not really common enough.

You’re based in London - what’s the music scene like there at the moment? Are there other artists breaking through at the same time that you take inspiration from?
It’s exciting. Constantly surrounded by gigs and new music. Loving it really mad to see how this whole DIY age of music is just taking on its own identity especially here. My brother Hi.Lo has started build up to his debut EP, which is an unreal piece from a very talented lad.

Who would be your dream collaborator?
Damon Albarn. Just he must of had one of the maddest careers with so much diversity in his art and staying sane in the process. Definitely would like a “how to Damon” book on my coffee table.

Musically or otherwise, what are you most looking forward to this year?
I’m looking forward to it all, releasing some good music, playing more live shows and making videos and art alongside it.

If people could take away one thing from your music, what would it be?
Just not to take yourself too seriously, life’s alright you know just gotta appreciate it as it comes.

Tags: Leyma, Features, Interviews, Neu, Get to Know