Canberra-based country-pop artist Leila has been a familiar face here at the AU review. We premiered her single “Do Without” last year, followed by the title track of her new EP, “Heart and Soul”, back in July. We’ve enjoyed watching her develop as a songwriter, and today we’re delighted to bring you the exclusive premiere of her sophomore EP, Heart And Soul, ahead of its official release this Friday, 23rd October.
Across four tracks, Leila writes about new beginnings, backing herself against outside doubt, setting boundaries and missing home while on the road. What stands out is the maturity of it all – if Leila were in your friendship group, she’d be the one you’d always lean on for advice.
The EP opens with the country-pop of “Different Way Home”, followed by the title track, which we premiered back in July. When we first heard “Heart and Soul”, we were taken by how it builds from a stripped-back opening into a fuller arrangement as the lyrics grow more certain.
Track three, “Bloodstream”, is the EP’s most striking moment. Sometimes you need to be brave to look after yourself, and this is a song about doing exactly that. Its lyrics will resonate with anyone who has been hurt by those closest to them, and Leila’s clear, pure vocal carries that hard-won resolve. The upbeat “Close To Me” closes the EP.
It’s been a busy year for Leila. “Different Way Home” has picked up airplay on triple j’s Country Club, “Heart and Soul” found a home on ABC Country’s Grassroots, and “Bloodstream” has been on rotation on Edge of Country. She’s also about to head out on her biggest tour to date, taking the new material along Australia’s east coast.
Take a listen to Heart And Soul below, then read on as Leila takes us through the inspiration behind each of its four tracks.
Leila – Heart and Soul – Track by Track
“Different Way Home”
Pop/Country anthem ‘Different Way Home’ opens the ‘Heart And Soul’ EP. Drawing on the inspiration and theme of changing chapters, this award winning track stems from a feeling of apprehension and uncertainty, whilst feeling hopeful and optimistic about new beginnings. I hope this song meets the listener where they are and inspires someone to take a leap, because on the other side of fear is greatness, transformation and growth.
“Heart And Soul”
‘Heart and Soul’ is the title track of the EP, I wrote Heart and Soul for anyone chasing a dream or trying to carve out their own path, finding themselves running into outside critics who tell them that they should chase something different. I hope this inspires the listener to chase what they love and believe in themselves whole heartedly, as life is too short, and tomorrow is never promised.
“Bloodstream”
‘Bloodstream’ is an emotionally driven track about putting someone at a distance when they cause discomfort or hurt.
‘Bloodstream’ was inspired by the realisation of protecting personal boundaries and accepting that time and energy can be spent wherever you choose. Sometimes a large hurdle is a massive lesson, and this was the case with this experience.
“Close To Me”
The upbeat pop track, ‘Close To Me’ was inspired by the feeling of missing or longing for someone’s presence while being on the road. Being on the road comes with its highs and lows, and often I’ve felt some sort of home in every place I’ve been. The song explains the feeling of wanting to be in many places at once.
Leila: Heart And Soul Tour Dates 2026
24 October: The Polo, Canberra, ACT (All Ages)
6 November: Palomino Lounge, Sydney, NSW
14 November: Avoca Beach Theatre, Avoca Beach, NSW
19 November: Medusa Bar, Geelong, VIC
20 November: Wesley Anne, Melbourne, VIC
22 November: Alt Rd Wines, Winchelsea South, VIC
4 December: Miami Marketta, Gold Coast, QLD
6 December: Den Devine, Gold Coast, QLD
The Canberra and Melbourne dates are ticketed through Humanitix, with free entry to the remaining shows. All dates apart from Canberra are 18+. Under-18s attending Canberra must be accompanied by an adult.
For tickets and more information, visit Leila’s official website.
Heart And Soul is released on Friday, 23rd October 2026.
You can keep up to date with Leila via her Website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music
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