I’m always keen to give a shout out to fellow Londoners, especially creative ones who make really good stuff. This this time around it's musician Leena Ojala.
Pronounced "Leeyna Oyala" the indie electronica artist has drawn comparisons to Adele and British singer-songwriter and electronica artist Låpsley but fully deserves to be recognised in her own right. Fortunately, praise has been bestowed by Fader, CLASH and IDOLMagazine amongst other credible publications and she was recently a featured artist on Spotify's Fresh Finds Hiptronix playlist.
A stand out track of Leena’s is the haunting Little Place. Produced by platinum-selling Benbrick (Paul Carter), it was given a beautiful visual accompaniment earlier this year in a video shot by renowned London-based director Aella Jordan-Edge in NYC. Leena’s probing lyrics and understated melodies are brought to cinematic life in the video, which visualises a young couple facing major change, and takes the viewer on a journey across Brooklyn Bridge, the back alleys of Manhattan and the enticing sands of Jacob Riis Beach.
The track is strong enough in its original guise, but a few weeks back it was treated to the dance effect by Swedish producer, fellow Londoner (another one! We are clever clogs aren't we) and Zane Lowe favourite Ludvig Parment AKA Saturday, Monday. Saturday, Monday has remixed acts like Naomi Pilgrim, Elliphant, Little Dragon - and now Leena Ojala - and has been described by DIY magazine as “a master of multiple guises”. He has also collaborated with the likes of Steve Angello, Pell and Hayley Kiyokoto and if you’re not familiar with his work then check out Headshake feat. Julia Spada for a delectable taster. *plays on repeat*.
Definitely worth checking out, this remix of Leena Ojala’s Little Place has diversified my Spotify playlist and given it a welcome lift. Electronica is not usually my immediate go-to genre, but this has opened my eyes a bit wider. An instantly catchy introduction, a haunting vocal and tight production make this a keep-on-listening kind of tune.
If you like your electronica blended with an 80s-infused vibe and take inspiration from Steve Nicks, London Grammar and Kate Bush then check out Little Place. Oh, and Leena’s debut EP, simply titled EP1, should be on your playlist too.
You can listen to the remix here.
What are you waiting for?
Leena Ojala
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Saturday, Monday
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