Come Back To Me, But Lightly is the Lost Map debut for Glasgow-based Canadian L.T. Leif. A solo project that features contributions from Bill Wells, Faith Eliott, and Mark Hamilton (Woodpigeon) – to name but a few – the record aches with the ruthless yet rewarding strain of rediscovery. Like the first snowdrops of spring, Leif shakes off the frozen earth that has bound them to present an enlivening collection of alternative Scottish folk songs. Yet it is apparent the writer of these songs owns a passport bearing the enviable stamps of far-flung destinations, such is the breadth of their influence and scope.
While winter winds may still blow through the haunting soul of ‘No Birds’, by the time they reach the ultraviolet throb of ‘Pass Back Through’ springtime has come, and Leif’s eye is cast on a future in which they can be kinder to themself.
The road to self-acceptance is not one to be raced down, but as Leif lays themself bare on the a cappella closer ‘The Brightest Part Of The Room,’ it feels like they have stuck the oars in the water, and in doing so have left an inspiring and uplifting set of songs in their wake.
Come Back To Me, But Lightly is out now via Lost Map Records
