The Australian rock singer Leah Martin-Brown steps into this week’s Meet The Band spotlight. She worked with legendary producer Mutt Lange on her debut album Love & Other Crimes. Let’s meet Leah Martin-Brown.
Chad Bowar: Describe the songwriting process for Love & Other Crimes.
Leah Martin-Brown: This album was a project I was invited to be part of after the songwriting had already taken place. The songwriters/producers had been looking for a very specific person to front this collection of music for several years so it was very exciting to be asked to front the album.
How did you come to work with producer Mutt Lange, and how was the experience?
A friend of mine had played the guitars when the project was first put together. When he heard they were looking for a new front person for the album, he contacted my manager who connected the dots. Working with Mutt and Tony (Nilsson) was an absolute dream come true! Definitely a new level of attention to detail in all of the performances- down to the syllable!
What will be your strongest memory of the recording of the album?
I was living in Stockholm, Sweden during the recording. I worked through everything in May-July 2021 so it was summer and the sun was never setting! I will also always remember recording in Baggpipe Studios, just an incredible place!
What was the biggest challenge in its creation?
Being a songwriter and usually writing and releasing heavier music, fronting a project I did not write in a genre that is different to my wheelhouse has been very challenging. I have absolutely grown as an artist and learned so many new skills and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity.
How would you characterize its style/sound?
I definitely think Love & Other Crimes could be described as a pop/rock album with some country flavour. Its a really fun record that blends genres beautifully!
What lyrical topics do you cover?
The songs on Love & Other Crimes typically deal with love, lust and a bit of heartbreak.
What inspired the album title?
I was trying to find an album cover that could really encapsulate the vibe of the record. I was listening to the songs on repeat and the track “Hysterical Love” came on. There is a lyric in the chorus that has the words “It’s a love crime.” I loved that, so I messed around with those lyrics to come up with the subsequent album title.
How did you come to sign with Frontiers?
I was incredibly lucky that the guitarist who worked on this album, Tommy Denander, had worked with Frontiers. He knew I’d been working on this album for several years and provided an introduction. They really enjoyed the record as well as the music I make for my project Evol Walks and offered me a deal. Honestly one of the best days of my life.
What are your goals and expectations for the album?
This album has been four years of work, I just want to get it out into the world for people to hear!
You filmed several videos for the album. Which was your favorite shoot?
The music videos were the part of this record I had creative control over which meant I had way too much fun chatting to my music video directors about themes/ideas etc.
I think “Light Show” was my absolutely favorite to film – and maybe “Shush.” Both were filmed in Stockholm with Jay Veezuals and his team and it was the most fun!
You have an album release party coming up. Any other show/tour plans?
I will be doing a stripped down acoustic set of some of my favorite songs from the record at Hotel Ziggy on Oct 28th as part of the We Found New Music Showcase, its going to be a fun show!
At this present moment no. I am in the middle of writing and recording new music. I would like to get another release out sooner rather than later.
What are some of your non-musical interests and hobbies?
To be honest, I don’t do a whole lot outside of music. I like to read, I like to hit the gym, I occasionally play videos games and I go to a lot of concerts.
What’s the best thing you binge watched lately?
Monster: Ed Gein. Really enjoyed that series!
What’s currently in your musical heavy rotation?
Parkway Drive- they are solidly in there right now.
Anything else you’d like to mention or promote?
Just very excited for everyone to hear Love & Other Crimes! And if you’re in LA on Oct 28th, I’m having a free show/album release party at Hotel Ziggy that I’d LOVE you to attend!
(interview published October 25, 2025)
Watch Leah Martin-Brown – “Light Show” Video
