The Leaf Library

The Leaf Library

The Leaf Library are a London-based group active since 2005. Their music is described as ambient pop and art pop, with earlier descriptions also placing them in looping drone pop, occasional space rock, and related indie pop, shoegaze and dream pop territory.

Formation and early lineup

The group begins in Reading after Matt Ashton’s previous band, Saloon, splits in 2004. Ashton starts writing and recording with vocalist Kate Gibson, then moves the project to London. There, bassist Gareth Jones, previously of Wintergreen, and guitarist Ben Smith join, with Smith being Ashton’s housemate at the time. After a period with temporary drummers, Lewis Young becomes the permanent drummer and brings a collection of synths and gadgets into the group’s sound. The verified lineup also includes Melinda Bronstein and Laura Copsey.

Releases

The Leaf Library’s first single, Losing Places, appears in 2008 on the Dutch label The Hooter Listens and includes a remix by Isan. A second single follows in 2010 on the French label Beko. In 2011 the band releases Different Activities, Similar Diversions, a compilation of tracks and home recording experiments. The Greater Good follows in 2014 as part of the WIAIWYA singles club and receives regular play on BBC 6 Music. Another 7-inch, Walking Backwards, appears on the same label in 2015. Their debut album, Daylight Versions, is released in 2015 by WIAIWYA.