Layke sets to release new EP

Following the recent music video debut of “Beautiful War,” indie dream pop artist and fiercely loyal LGBTQ member Layke is set to release her first EP, self-titled LAYKE Part 1, on Friday, December 14.

With the upcoming EP release, Layke’s channels a classic Fleetwood Mac inspired vibe with “Strangers in the Dark.” The entire EP is produced by Adrian Gurvitz, and through vintage synths, guitars and drums, you feel the alluring raw and exposed authenticity of Layke.

As a diverse and evolving pansexual, queer individual, who grew up in conservative Texas, Layke has always identified herself as a round peg trying to fit into a square hole. Layke has been performing since she was a child, and the creative arts were a way for her to channel her sensitivity and energy into something constructive. In high school, Layke began singing backup in a punk-rock band, which evolved into writing songs. She had always been a poet in her own mind, keeping diaries since she was a child, but putting those words into music was a new concept. After graduating, she moved to Los Angeles to create her own art, her own world, not act out someone else’s.

The move to Los Angeles was anything but seamless. Through the difficulties, Layke seized her opportunity to figure out who she was artistically. She appreciated her time in art school, but nothing compares to her time in the studio with renowned producer Adrian Gurvitz after he took her under his wing. Adrian and Layke knew the direction would be experimental, and therefore would require new equipment including vintage synths, drum machines and mellotrons. While he was producing the record with Layke, Adrian was enjoying the success of Andra Day’s “Rise Up,” which he produced. His success with Andra pushed him outside of his comfort zone and he created something ethereal, moody, and eclectic. Adrian guided Layke artistically into an entirely different place. This record is far more than a compilation of songs. The intention is to create art that will stand the test of time, something years from now will still be remembered for its contribution to pop.

Layke wants people to feel inspired by her art to create their own safe space in the world. She hopes people hear this album and feel that they can be whoever they want to be, unapologetically and unabashedly.