Read Time:2 Minute, 17 Second

Just Leila has been busy this year as she released a series of singles. Three of those singles served as lead singles for her newest release, “just for me.” “just for me” is Just Leila’s debut EP. It holds a special place in her heart, and she marked the special moment by releasing the EP on her birthday, December 18th. The seven-track EP is chock full of sounds and languages; thus, showcasing the versatility and immense talent that Just Leila possesses. The EP takes listeners on a journey of different cultures, moods, and ideas.

The EP commences with a fan favorite, “bits of pieces.” “bits of pieces” is an eclectic song. Ironically, “bits of pieces” borrows bits and pieces from various genres of music, blending Arabic sounds, Neo-Soul, Jazz, and even Hip-Hop/Rap. The record is the perfect tone-setter for the EP. The second track is “bébé?” “bébé?” is where Just Leila separates herself from the pack as she performs the song in French. The French Pop bop has a smooth, tropical sound. Just Leila furthers her masterfulness by adding various samples including one of a baby. Track three, “don’t be alarmed,” reverts back to English and takes a different direction from the previous record. “don’t be alarmed” has a spooky, haunting sort of sound. It also has a jazzy, operatic portion to it as well. Up next is “more than dna.” “more than dna” continues with the darker theme and carries with it an Afrobeats, Electronica sound. Track five turns back to the French language. “ché pas” has an anthemic vibe to it and features trancy, enchanting vocals by Just Leila. The penultimate song, “desert song,” keeps up the chanting style from the previous track, but is performed in English. The song has Alternative and African sounds. The “just for me” EP closes with the titular song, “just for me.” “just for me” is a great closer as Just Leila bares her soul through Spoken Word. She emphasizes the overarching themes of the EP, which are liberation/freedom and authenticity.

Morocco-bred, Untied States-based Just Leila really demonstrates who she is and where she comes from in the EP, “just for me.” The linguistic and cultural blends are put on full display and make her sound so unique and enthralling. The EP may be Just Leila’s first, but it surely won’t be her last. Although the EP is titled, “just for me,” it is clearly all for we. Press play on the EP and immerse yourself in the soundscape that is “just for me.”

Follow Just Leila on Instagram: @its.just.leila.

This review was made possible by SubmitHub.