Montreal-based artist Léolo, born Léo Hamel, this week released his debut album Mainland.
Known for blending indie pop with experimental influences, Léolo’s first full-length project has been a long time in the making, spanning over four years of creative work. The album features 10 tracks, including six previously unreleased songs.
An album release show is scheduled for November 26 at La Sala Rossa in Montreal.
Mainland centres on themes of self-discovery and breaking free, with the title track telling the story of a pilgrim leaving behind an island in search of new beginnings on the mainland. Léolo’s sound is influenced by artists like Björk, Imogen Heap, and Caroline Polachek, with the album offering a mix of upbeat, celebratory tracks and more introspective, melancholic moments.
The lead single, “Feel the World,” has already been released alongside a music video. The song, which touches on themes of acceptance and change, offers a glimpse of the optimism and emotional depth that Léolo promises to explore throughout Mainland. The album was produced with the help of notable collaborators, including Austin Tufts of Braids, who contributed to production and mixing, and Pascal Chenard, a rising producer based in London. Additionally, two tracks were co-written with Raphaelle Standell-Preston (Braids, Blue Hawaii), further broadening the sonic palette.
Léolo’s music, which speaks to his queer identity, aims to push beyond simple genre categorization. With his strong vocal performances and layered soundscapes, Mainland is expected to resonate with a wide audience while staying deeply personal to the artist. For those following Montreal’s indie music scene, Léolo’s debut is an anticipated release that promises both emotional intensity and experimental flair.
Photo credit: Derek Branscombe
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