Rising Arp: Leeray Is Queer And Empowering In His Drifty Universe Of ‘Dream R&B’

Dive into the ‘Dream R&B’ of Leeray (Credit: Courtesy of Leeray)

While others embrace their identity or sexuality in an evolving world, many still feel shackled by the solitude of non-acceptance. As an openly queer musician, Leeray is compelled to reach out to those who still struggle today. Since his debut in 2020, he’s proudly put out material that expresses queer themes through his music, with the altruistic purpose of helping others like him feel less alone.

It’s why he’s now using his debut EP as a malleable vessel that’s open to interpretation. Titled X-Ray, the eight-track collection uses a flexible ‘X’ variable – while playing with his Leeray pseudonym – to encourage listeners to chisel their own meaning into his compositions. On the surface, Leeray lays out a linear journey of heartbreak, from the downfalls of denial to the liberation of acceptance. But lyrically, Leeray spins this weathered tale with enough poeticism and abstract flurriness to make it anyone’s narrative.

Leeray has been featured on several Spotify playlists since his debut in 2020 (Credit: Courtesy of Leeray)

Leeray whimsically refers to his sound as ‘Dream R&B’, and it’s an imaginative categorisation that doesn’t miss the mark. His vocals do exhibit the velvety fluidity of R&B, yet weaved with hooky pop sentiments that latch on easily. With a slurry flow that’s buttery smooth, Leeray’s vocals are caressing and comforting, but he’s also able to bite with his words. To forge the fantasy of his sound further, Leeray also roped in the vintage stylings of executive producer, Fremadethis, creating a sonic tapestry that explores everything from ’80s synth-pop ballads to golden age G-funk.

Standout tracks on the debut EP include “Eager”, a cautionary tale of misplaced faith and karma sung with treacly auto-tuned effects, swaggering with a sludgy and slowed hip-hop beat. “Semicircle” is an insouciant, light-as-air bop that soothes with pitter-patter synths and lo-fi crystalline chords, while touching on the tragedy of half-hearted affairs. And on “You Must Be Kidding”, Leeray circles around the loop of old patterns while navigating a songscape of reverb-buffed snares and chubby, funk bass licks.

Unforgiving and unflinching, Leeray is lending his voice and personal experiences to build strength for an ostracised community. In the spirit of Pride, Leeray is flying the flag high; the kind of artiste our community needs right now.