LÉON with Jacob Banks at the Garrison

Photographs by Katrina Lat.

The buzz around the room was ‘she’s the next big thing’ and after LÉON’s performance at The Garrison, I can see why. Swedish indie-pop singer-songwriter, LÉON (born Lotta Lindgren) has lots of people singing her praises including pop-star Katy Perry.  She began her musical career as a front-woman of a hip hop and soul group in her teens before embarking on a solo career with producer Agrin Rahmani.

In 2015, LÉON’s first single “Tired of Talking” from her debut release, Treasure –EP received over 41 million plays on Spotify and she was labeled the one to watch since then. This winter LÉON gives fans a taste of what to expect from her highly anticipated full-length when she headlines her first North American tour.

Her big, soulful voice had the whole audience mesmerized as she opens strong with “Think About You” and “Nobody Cares”.  LÉON announces it’s her first show in Toronto since performing at The Drake Hotel last year. She quickly thanks the crowd for coming despite the horrible weather and promised a fun evening.

She follows up with a new song “Sleep Deprived”, a poppy tune about the ache you feel for a lost love which was a hit with the audience. One thing you noticed about LÉON is that she isn’t afraid to get personal with her fans. She gave insight to the meaning behind her songs like “Liar” which often talks about disappointed exes and drunken nights.  Her beautiful vocals mixed with a spotless production and sweet melodies, made for a memorable show. 

LÉON treated fans to another new song called “For You” and an amazing cover of “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac. Before performing her encore; LÉON asked the crowd if they’ve ever been lied to. The audience responded with a loud yes. She simply replied with “well after being lied to, it feels so good to get the self-respect you actually need”. The personal message inspired her closing number “Tired of Talking” which definitely had the crowd singing along.