More than two years after telling us, “I want everything. I want everyone to hear me. I want to conquer the world,” LeeBrian is finally taking his first major step in that direction.
The rising Puerto Rican rapper, who went viral early in his career with freestyle videos, releases his debut EP The Ghost of the East today after a long delay that was extended by the global pandemic, which put a halt on numerous projects and releases. In his song “Wanda Lo Recordó,” he shares the story of two young lovers trying to make it through quarantine on the island. LeeBrian gets it.
The new project comes on the heels of his recent single “Preseo,” which was released back in January and features additional vocals from De La Ghetto, Kevvo, and Noriel. Alongside the EP, LeeBrian also brings us the music video for “Un Ft.” with Dominican star Amenazzy. In contrast to the aggressive and more primal reggaetón energy of “Preseo,” LeeBrian and producer Caleb Calloway dial things back to a more lo-fi, chill beat that’s no less catchy. The video, directed by Gian Rivera, captures the infectious flow of the song with trippy visuals enhanced by Rivera’s signature mixed-media approach.
The Ghost of the East, named to reference LeeBrian’s growing up “in a ghost town on the east coast of Puerto Rico” as he puts it, comes stacked with eight tracks and standout guest artists, including Latin trap O.G. Fuego on the song “Kiko,” produced by veteran producer DVLP and Capi. Breakout female trapera Mariah Angeliq, who’s also been making a name for herself, is featured on “Yugo Desigual.”
Fellow up-and-comer Chanell makes an appearance on “DUH,” produced by Rimas’ own Machael & CIIAN. LeeBrian’s musical godfather Sky Rompiendo, who first swooped in and signed the budding star to his label Black Koi back in 2018, also oversaw the EP.
There is no doubt that this is the same irreverent and gifted lyricist that delighted fans back during his Freestyle Mania days. Now, he’s catapulted to a new level that he’s been reaching for over the last few years, and his plans for world domination might just start becoming more viable with a little help from all his new fans.