Leon Thomas takes his artistry to new heights with MUTT, his second album released in September 2023. Building on the eclectic mix of R&B, soul, and psychedelic rock introduced in Electric Dusk, Mutt dives deeper into personal themes of identity and self-reflection. The album’s title is a metaphor for feeling like a mix of different influences and experiences, which Thomas skillfully explores through a fusion of genres. By blending rock, R&B, and hip-hop, he creates a soundscape that feels fresh, personal, and unrestrained.
The album’s opener, “Mutt,” featuring Freddie Gibbs on a remix, sets the tone with its introspective lyrics and soulful production. The track reflects on identity and belonging, themes that carry through the album. “Far Fetched,” with Ty Dolla $ign, explores the pursuit of love and dreams that always seem just out of reach, followed by the reflective “Sooner or Later,” adding depth to the album’s emotional exploration. Thomas’ ability to connect these personal themes with universal emotions makes the album resonate on multiple levels.
Leon’s versatility shines on tracks like “Yes It Is,” where he addresses the tension between vulnerability and surface-level connections, layering soft piano melodies with his smooth vocals. Another highlight is “Lucid Dreams” featuring Masego, a dreamy track about lingering heartache, elevated by Masego’s soulful saxophone. Each collaboration brings something new, with Wale adding a dose of introspection on “Feelings On Silent,” blending hip-hop and R&B to explore themes of self-worth and emotional resilience.
MUTT closes on a reflective note, with tracks like “Dance With Demons” and “I Used To” showcasing Thomas’ ability to dive deep into emotional and spiritual territory. The album as a whole is a testament to his growth, blending a variety of sounds while staying true to his emotional core. Through its exploration of love, identity, and control, Mutt solidifies Leon Thomas as an artist unafraid to push boundaries and craft a narrative that feels as layered and complex as life itself.
Stream Leon Thomas’ MUTT below!
