Ian Leone's 'THE IAN SHOW' EP explores London's murky depths

The project unpacks the importance of friendship and the rage of the party...

Following the release of his ‘Does It Real Good’ single last month, Ian Leone returns with ‘THE IAN SHOW’, the debut EP under his new alias.

Formally known as Maxsta, the Lewisham-born, East London-hailing artist, producer and model has long been a staple of the UK rap and grime scene – even attending the same secondary school as Kano before going on to work with the likes of Lancey Fouxx, P-Money, JME, Tinchy Stryder and more over the course of his career so far.

After launching his new Ian Leone project with the track ‘Basquiat’ back in February, Leone has enjoyed carving out a stylish new sound pulling influence from the edges of trap, hip hop, rock and jazz.

The most significant release of this new chapter so far, his 4-track EP ‘THE IAN SHOW’ offers a new take on black vulnerabilities and strengths, deploying gripping emotive beats and high octane energy throughout the body of work. Ian uses his rap skills to tell stories of forbidden interracial love, issues of abandonment with family, the importance of friendship and the rage of the party.

As well as featuring previously released tracks ‘Basquiat’ and ‘Does It Real Good’, the project also introduces 2 new songs, ‘The Life’ and ‘Waterfall’, drawing inspiration from the likes of Tyler the creator and Kid Cudi to bring a Stateside flavour to his murky UK sound.

Stream ‘THE IAN SHOW’ EP below or listen with your preferred player here.