Yaz León - Bleach (EP) + 10 Questions
Intertwining lyrical dexterity with ingenious production, Spanish-Iraqi singer-songwriter Yaz León has shared the release of her highly anticipated self produced EP, ‘Bleach’ alongside leading single “Gully”. Continuing to build the momentum surrounding her artistry, the storyteller’s mesmerising and nostalgic sound has caught the attention of many across the nation. Featuring pre-released fan favourites “Mouthwash” and “4th Wall'' featuring fellow newcomer BUKKY, ‘Bleach’ marks a pivotal point in Yaz’s creative journey thus far.
Whilst Yaz León’s sonic expression can be unpredictable, cohesion can be found through her use of nostalgia and masterful penmanship. Proven numerous times, Yaz isn’t one to confine into genre stereotypes. Blending elements of indie, soul, hip-hop and more, into one seamless listen, ‘Bleach’ is a testament to exactly that. Continuously evolving as proven with this self-produced project,, Yaz León welcomes the project with a soft instrumentation in “Letty’s Orchestra” before unwinding in the lead single “Gully”. Held together with a heart-wrenching emotion, “Gully” has an ethereal feel that’s sustained throughout “Cassy”. Journeying through to fan favourite single “Mouthwash” as she details the dualities of relationships, “Josie’s Jeep” takes a slightly grungier turn. Rippling Yaz’s distinct vocals through a musky production, both “Jane Doe” and “Peach Fuzz” are nourished with a sense of euphoria. Enlisting BUKKY for “4th Wall”, the pair unite as they question their identity whilst navigating individual growth. Closing out the EP on the somber tones of “What’s Worse Than This?” Yaz León solidifies her trailblazer status with this genre-warping EP.
Capturing the human experience as we see it today, ‘Bleach’ explores the intricacies of life, unveiling a body of work that's bound to transport you to another world. Blending escape with reality, this enchanting EP streamlines an authentic connection with Yaz’s supporters, whilst leaving time for self-discovery.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the EP, Yaz León commented, “Bleach is my internal monologue in the past year as I argue with myself in a very schizo- and at times egocentric, manner. The scenarios aren’t rational. Frankly, it makes me uncomfortable, so that’s wonderful. I really wanted to create a body of work that lyrically didn’t shy away from mania, and sonically used sounds that were reminiscent of lots of genres, while still not following the rules of those genres. You could listen to some of these songs queued behind an rnB or rock or pop song, but they wouldn’t be considered members of those groups. Same but different.”
Yaz León is an up-and-coming Indie-Soul sensation hailing from West London. The Spanish-Iraqi, artist, producer and singer-songwriter enjoys mixing indie and soul elements to create emotionally dysfunctional music. Sharing her debut EP ‘ITS ONLY TAKEOUT MA’ in 2022 which caught the eyes of many online, Yaz León is a twenty-something woman documenting her human experience so far. Well known for her use of vulnerability and being able to captivate her listeners with her spellbinding lyricism, Yaz’s fearless approach to music is building a growing fan-base that are eager for more.
Earning acclaimed support from publications including Wonderland, Notion, COLORS, BBC Introducing London, The Line of Best Fit, The Forty Five, Noctis Magazine, Ones To Watch, Oculate, Earmilk, Lyrical Lemonade, Postscript Magazine, Dance Wax, and more, alongside performances for Sofar Sounds (London & Brighton) and BBC Music Introducing, Yaz León continues to prove why she’s an unbreakable force within British music.
Yaz León sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
Honestly, I used to love listening to my dads music, and then I got into noodling around on GarageBand and that was it. I was in some little bands growing up too which are some of my best memories.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I want to work with Matt Champion, Romeo + Juliet, Mk.gee, Portraits of Tracy, Dijon! Everyone lol.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
We’re actually filming a live session of the project! So that’ll be nice to see the band’s dynamics. But also I’ve got way more music with collaborations from some of the most talented artists. Respectfully.
4. How would you describe your sound?
It feels a bit like a false dejavú. You could’ve sworn you’ve heard it before, but you haven’t.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
Finishing my EP Bleach. The growth in my production, my confidence, my lyricism feels mental. So I’m a little bit proud, naturally.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Be stubborn, if it’s important and maybe don’t think about how you want the music to end up sounding like.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
SOMOH, Amethyst, Ry-Guy, Caleb Kunle, and ROSIN, Kate Bond!!
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Imagine I said my own project lol. I really like Dominic Fike’s 14 Minutes project, Two Star and the Dream Police, AB’s Sound & Colours is great too, but also Madison Cunningham - Who Are You Now? and ATLiens!
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
I’m a bit of a gardener - got some sweet peas growing at the moment!
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
My hard drive…. My lizard Red, and my midi synth!