Leila Emerges with “Burnout”

The title, “Burnout”, may sound just a little unpromising. However, the artist responsible for the thus-named EP, available now, is clearly a major new talent. Signed to Herbert Grönemeyer’s boutique label Grönland Records and booking agency All Artists Agency, Leila – yes, just that: Leila – possesses the kind of voice that once heard, is not easily forgotten. Deep and androgynous, it sounds young and old, strong and vulnerable, provocative and intimate, all at the same time.

Born and raised in Berne and previously a member of the successful indie-combo Jeans For Jesus, Leila Šurković, 22, describes herself as a “tomboy”, suffers from ADHS and regards her music as therapy. Like the EP’s title, these words are more than a little misleading. Leila’s lyrics – sung in English to reflect her bi-cultural upbringing with a Bosnian father – might not exactly ooze a party-vibe. In combination with her sumptuous and catchy melodies, however, they take on a joyously defiant, even optimistic, hue. Thus, one of the EP-tracks, “Gun to my Head”, thanks in part to an irresistible chorus, has already garnered nearly two million Spotify clicks. Leila celebrates the release of the record with a headlining tour of the GAS countries.

LEILA
Grönland Records
All Artists Agency