Dutch artist Leyo emerges as a fresh voice in electronic music with his debut album on Cécille Records, set to release this September. This LP showcases LEYO’s versatility and depth, featuring eight original tracks that span from soulful electro-pop to raw house, with collaborative appearances by fellow Dutch artists Toman and Thierry Ganz.
Photo credit: Leyo – Official
Hailing from Amersfoort in the Netherlands, Leyo’s inaugural album is a testament to his innovative approach, utilizing a full band setup to create a rich, multifaceted sound. The album’s diverse palette ranges from funk-infused disco jams to sun-drenched lounge cuts, demonstrating Leyo’s ability to seamlessly blend various electronic music subgenres.
From the psychedelic guitar tones in the opening track ‘Hello (Intro)’ to the jazz-tinged raw house vibes of ‘Open Up The Trunk Do It,’ Leyo takes listeners on a sonic journey that defies easy categorization. The album features standout collaborations, including a high-octane disco house jam with Toman and Thierry Ganz, showcasing Leyo’s talent for crafting infectious grooves and building atmospheric tension.
EG had the opportunity to sit down with Leyo to delve deeper into his creative process, inspirations, and the story behind this exciting debut album. Join us as we explore his mind and uncover the depths of his musical vision.
EG: Hi Leyo, thanks for taking the time to talk with us! We’ve been enjoying your debut album for Cécille Records. For those people yet to hear the project, could you give us some context into how, when, and where it was made?
Leyo: Thanks for the invite. It was made in Cubase in a band setting with a crew consisting of NSR (producer), a guitarist, a key player, and live bass playing—basically, a full band arrangement. We started out in a studio but went from writing camps back to the studio to finish it up. It was all created in the Netherlands during the transition from winter to summer, and with that in mind, we came up with a groove that was hungry for the summer.
EG: The press release describes the album as “soulful electro-pop, funk-infused disco, raw house and sun-drenched lounge.” What were some of your influences in making this album, and how did you arrive at this amalgamation of sounds?
Leyo: With a love for the old-school sound of Chicago house and disco, and being madly inspired by my friends from ANOTR, I wanted to contribute something meaningful to the culture. Sometimes you just feel compelled to do something, and this was it. It felt as necessary as breathing air.
EG: As well as vocals from Thierry Ganz, the album also features many recordings of instruments such as psychedelic guitar and keys. How were these instruments recorded, and who is behind these elements?
Leyo: We recorded everything live in the studio using analog synths played by Darin G and 3DDY—musicians I really look up to. The guitar and bass were played by Memru. In my opinion, all of these guys are geniuses, and we share great musical chemistry. I also consider them to be my friends.
“I want to become a household name in house culture and create something that adds value—not just for me, but for the whole community”
EG: You also collaborate with the well-known Dutch producer, Toman. How did you end up working with him on this record, and how did your paths cross?
Leyo: At the last ADE, I attended a ‘No Art’ show and was deeply inspired by ANOTR and their DJ set. I started talking with Toman, and a week later, we were vibing in the studio just like we had been behind the booth.
EG: Although this is your debut release as LEYO, you’re not entirely new to the music business, having already had huge success with other projects. What made you take the leap into making house music and releasing material with the underground staple imprint, Cécille Records?
Leyo: I just felt like I needed to do it. I make music with my heart, and with the same motivation I apply to my other music, I dove into this world as if it were my only one.
EG: What does the future hold for LEYO?
Leyo: I want to become a household name in house culture and create something that adds value—not just for me, but for the whole community.
Leyo’s ‘Hello’ is set to be released on September 6 via Cecille. Pre-order here.
