Leah Martin-Brown’s music pulls listeners into a world of raw emotion and shadowed intensity. Her latest single, “Shush,” builds on the darker themes explored in her upcoming album, blending atmospheric beats with haunting storytelling. Leah reflects on her upcoming release and the influences that have shaped her journey as a rock artist.

Lucy

Leah, how have you been processing the reactions to your recent singles, and what has surprised you the most about the feedback?

Leah Martin-Brown

I wasn’t sure what to expect when releasing these tracks as they are so different from anything I’ve released previously. I was quite nervous to be honest as I usually lean much heavier… I was so surprised by how many people are streaming and sharing the tracks despite them not having videos yet. And also surprised that people talk to me about them in public/real life rather than just online. It feels really good.

Lucy

With your album now complete, what emotions or thoughts are you most eager for listeners to uncover in the full work?

Leah Martin-Brown

I am really excited for them to hear the scope of the works as well as experience the different ways in which I have challenged myself vocally. It is unlike anything I have previously done.

Lucy

How do you feel the singles fit into the broader context of your upcoming album, and what do you hope they reveal about it?

Leah Martin-Brown

The singles definitely provide a broad overview of what people can expect the vibe to be. There is upbeat, straight pop. Dark pop and rock and roll… but there are definitely some surprises coming.

Lucy

What moments or experiences from your past have had the deepest impact on your music, and how do they echo in your recent work?

Leah Martin-Brown

It is hard to pinpoint exact moments but I often write about heartbreak or emotional turmoil I’ve usually put myself through. The upcoming album definitely touches on romantic subjects so this does reflect my own writing for previous projects.

Lucy

Can you share an inspiration or influence from your musical background that has significantly shaped your approach to music?

Leah Martin-Brown

I am a heavy rock girl at heart. I love the way the music makes me feel- like it sees deep within my soul. Anytime I have needed something in my life, music has been there- especially heavier, darker music and I do try and have this reflected in the works I am a part of.

Lucy

How do you see the themes of your music reflecting or challenging traditional ideas within the rock and pop genres?

Leah Martin-Brown

This album is such an interesting blend of straight up pop and old school rock. The crossing of genres in this way brings an incredibly interesting flavour that definitely challenges the usual way you’d hear a pop/rock or rock/pop song.

Photo Credit: Matilda Hammar

Lucy

What are your thoughts on the way women’s voices are represented in the music industry today?

Leah Martin-Brown

Compared to when I first started out, it is incredibly exciting to see how women are represented across the industry. We are continuing to be more and more present- especially in heavy music. I can’t even begin to describe how excited I was that Linkin Park announced Dead Sara’s Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist. What a moment!

Lucy

Leah, thank you for your time. Is there anything else you’d like to add or share?

Leah Martin-Brown

I’m looking forward to releasing some music videos for everyone very soon! X

Lucy Harker

Metal music makes me survive. Writing about it and talking with people who create it makes me happy.