Leon Thomas has introduced that he’ll be following up his celebrated 2024 sophomore album, MUTT, with an expanded deluxe version entitled HEEL. The up to date assortment will arrive on Could 30 by way of EZMNY/Motown Data.
Collaborators on HEEL embrace Kehlani, Large Sean, Halle, and extra. “MUTT has always been about embracing complexity in sound, in identity, in experience,” Leon shares. “HEEL is me leaning even deeper into that chaos, and finding beauty in it.”
Leon started teasing the expanded version final month when he shared “RATHER BE ALONE,” which options the aforementioned artist and actress Halle. Whereas strands of R&B stand entrance and heart, Thomas showcases the evolution of the MUTT and HEEL period by fusing this sound with soul and rock influences. Lyrically, the artist is as susceptible as ever. Thomas and Halle sing through the refrain: “I’d rather be alone, rather be alone/ Than in a broken home/ I’d rather be alone/ Rather be alone/ Tryin’ to do this for the both of us on my own.”
That includes collaborations with Ty Dolla $ign, Freddie Gibbs, Wale, and extra, MUTT explores all the scale of affection—from the thrilling preliminary highs of singlehood to the complexities of emotional intimacy. Thomas additionally examines concepts of vulnerability, fame, emotional detachment, and the hunt for real connection.
In a March interview with Billboard, Thomas shared some ideas on HEEL, and its position as an introduction into new sounds and types inside his arsenal. He mentioned: “There [are] sides to me that I haven’t shown the world yet, so I’m spoon-feeding them. You need to hide the medicine in the candy. This deluxe is me stepping deeper into my purpose.”
The pending arrival of HEEL continues this thrilling period of Thomas’ musical journey, which just lately included a viral Tiny Desk efficiency to BET nods and “Mutt” rising up the Scorching 100 chart.
