“This song combines various stages of a strained relationship, likely on the brink of collapse,” explains New York-based (by way of New Orleans) singer/songwriter Lenny Zenith about his gem of a single “One of Us Should Go”. Taken from his upcoming album He/Hymn, the title is a play on his transgender identity.
Due for release on October 29, 2024 via XYYX Records, the lush indiepop anthem is a heartbreaking lament that details a relationship in tatters. Reflecting on the lyrics, he recalls, “I have occasionally had a whiskey bottle on the kitchen table in the morning, and sleepless nights on the couch.”
The accompanying video overlays images of the song’s narrative intermixed with images of Lenny and band in the studio. “The video captures the chaos that surrounds a failing relationship, and the rain echoes that, as well,” he says. “I asked James [Pertusi, bassist/background vocals] to be the focal actor, and he was able to catch the song’s tension and pain with his old sketchbook and melancholy demeanor… which is quite opposite of his actual persona,” Lenny laughs.
Lenny Zenith’s new album He/Hymn is a sonic exploration of the redemptive power of music. His lyrics, vibrant and often poetic, navigate universal themes of love, loss, and the human condition, while his musical prowess creates lush, cinematic soundscapes. Recorded during the pandemic lockdown, the album’s tracks were assembled in parts with none of the musicians playing together. “[Drummer] Rafael Gayol was sent a fairly barebones demo with the BPM and he played along with it as did the guitarist in Austin Andrew Solin,” he explains. “We were all joyously surprised with how well it came out, but the original demo had a lot of soul.” – QX
Lenny Zenith is a trans artist who has all the history of a young person who was able to find compassion with people who helped him transition. He has performed with U2, Iggy Pop (The Godfather of Punk), The Replacements, and a personal punk rock fave X.
I will be interviewing him shortly for Instinct. Enjoy this track, more to come, the album is to be released on October 29th, 2024. Here is Lenny Zenith’s “One Of Us Should Go.” – Instinct
Lenny Zenith offers a glimpse into his upcoming album He/Hymn with the release of his latest single, “One Of Us Should Go.” The track begins with a rhythmic pulse from the tom-tom drums, gradually building intensity before the chorus bursts with raw energy. Lush harmonies and captivating guitar lines invite listeners to immerse themselves fully. The song’s instrumentation weaves a rich tapestry of sound, evoking both nostalgia and modernity, giving it a timeless quality. Lyrically, it explores themes of love, loss, hope, and resilience, delivering an empowering message. As a trailblazer in both the broader music world and the trans music scene, Lenny Zenith continues to cement his legacy. Anticipation is high for He/Hymn. Be sure to check out the single now and don’t miss the epic music video! – Rock The Pigeon
“It would be easy to call Lenny Zenith’s new album What If the Sun a debut, since it is technically the singer’s first album under his own name. But Zenith has been participating in the music industry for decades as a member of multiple indie pop-rock bands, including Jenifer Convertible, Minor Planets and Tenterhooks.
But with What If the Sun, Zenith is finally taking his music into his own hands. The singer tells Billboard that for years he didn’t feel safe publicizing himself because of his transgender identity. But now, he’s ready to let the world know exactly who he is. “I want my voice to be heard, and I want to be able to support working with other transgender people and artists,” he says.” – Billboard
“His infectiously catchy indie pop has classic alternative written all over it; influences from ’80s new wave and ’90s guitar rock come together to create uniquely exciting sounds that shine…” – Atwood Magazine
Lenny Zenith Has Spent Decades Bringing Trans Visibility to Rock & Roll
“Lenny Zenith’s rock legacy is as legendary as it is quiet…he has crafted a legacy in rock and roll as one of the genre’s first true transgender rock stars.
It was in the parking lot outside of Toll Junior High that Lenny’s Methodist father sent him in alone to register for eighth grade after moving to the town following a divorce and it was here that Lenny forged a new identity. Leaving the male and female checkboxes blank, Lenny began to pass as a boy. “I assume some teachers were confused but, to my surprise, I was never challenged,” he explained to OUT. “There were no GSAs, reality TV shows, or advocacy groups then, so I just navigated the unfamiliar landscape as well as I could — often fearful, but always hoping for the best.”” OUT.com
For rocker Lenny Zenith, his new release is something personal.
The autobiographical single “Where is Safe?” focuses on Zenith’s own experience as a trans teen. He’s created a song that trans teens may be able to relate to in ways they never could in other music.
It’s also a direct result of the anti-gender-affirming laws that have begun to crop up in several states. These laws are looking to criminalize affirming care or at least prohibit medical providers from prescribing it.
“Had my parents not gotten me gender-affirming care when I was a teen transitioning in New Orleans a long time ago, I’d be dead,” Zenith said in a release.
“NYC-based Trans rock singer Lenny Zenith has released a new single “Where is Safe?”, where he sings about his personal journey in order to raise awareness about Trans issues and support Trans youth.
NYC-based Trans rock singer Lenny Zenith has released a new single “Where is Safe?”, where he sings about his personal journey in order to raise awareness about Trans issues and support Trans youth.
During a time when gender affirming care for Trans people and Trans youth are being threatened in states all over the U.S., the single serves as a reminder that we need to remain diligent and protect Trans rights. Trans people should feel safe and protected, and he is proof that this support can save lives.
“Had my parents not gotten me gender-affirming care when I was a teen transitioning in New Orleans a long time ago, I wouldn’t be here talking to you today,” Zenith said in a video posted to Twitter.” – Bear World Magazine
PRAISE FOR LENNY ZENITH & THE ALBUM WHAT IF THE SUN – 2018
“…the true beauty of this record is the ease with which Zenith and his band, accented by guitarist Ben Collins, bassist/guitarist James Pertusi, drummer Scott Campbell, and keyboardists Carl Baggaley and Leah Diehl, sway from boisterous tracks such as the two minute blast of “Trouble” to the serene, majestic “Wish” with effortless precision. “Decompress Baby” and “Still I Rise” are other sterling examples of serene power pop that are instantly infectious, highlighted by Zenith’s warmth as a singer. Hopefully, What if the Sun brings Lenny Zenith the type of name recognition so rightfully deserved by a highly talented artist.” – Jersey Beat
The new album titled ‘What If The Sun’ consists of 12 songs of just good ol’ fun rock. Have a headache? Listen to Zenith. Have a backache? Alleviate that with Zenith. Have a gripe about not having fun with your usual day to day music? Break up the monotony with Zenith!
However, the album isn’t about trans and trans subjects. It’s the culmination of works and thoughts from a musician who’d been around the block and has some things to say, in the style he’d always wanted. – Come Here Floyd
“For his latest trick, Zenith is taking stock of his life and career on this new album. Joining him throughout are musicians that he has played with over the past 30 years and the songs look to his past and present while gearing him and the world up for a future where the fight for trans rights still continues. To that end, Zenith is donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this album to organizations like Trans Women of Color Collective and Trans Lifeline.
Give a listen to “Trouble” from this wonderful new record…” – Paste Magazine
Suddenly Someone”, a tune that crackles with the energy of glam, the spirit of punk and carries a little more lyrical heft than your average two-minute tune. –
It’s hard to mention Lenny Zenith without going a bit over his résumé. He was born in New Orleans in the 70s before moving to California during his teenage years. He returned to New Orleans after graduating high school and started a punk band called RZA. Throughout his time in NOLA in the 80s, he opened for artists like Iggy Pop, The Replacements, Gun Club, X, and more. In the 90s, he moved to New York City and fronted the band Jennifer Convertible who recorded with (pre-LCD Soundsystem) James Murphy. Throughout the past few years, Zenith could be heard with the indie-rock band Tenterhooks.
This is some good stuff. A New York band that kicks up a glorious racket by combining all the best elements of rock, garage, pop and punk, all with melody, structure and punch. Classic four piece band that has vocal chops and songwriting skills always equals a winning combination.
This is one of those blink-and-you-missed-it pieces; you need to listen to it more than one time because you’ll want to remember what you heard and why you like it. I’m on my 5th go round – and that says a lot. So be looking out for Tenterhooks – I think they’ve got it.”
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED – POP DOSE
“Zenith is back in the New York groove with his tough and tuneful Tenterhooks. Former JenCon (and current Sharp Things and Ditty Committee) bassist James Pertusi at his side, Lenny rounded up his new unit with Scott Campbell on drums and Hiro Suzuki on lead guitar. … Tenterhooks has been turning heads all over town with their muscular indie-pop,” – The Big Takeover (on the 1st video debut)
“Tenterhooks sing songs about hope for those individuals who live alternative lifestyles. Tenterhooks sound similar to The Ramones with their angst driven vocal harmonies and thunderous post punk melodies that sound like a freight train is barreling down the tracks.” – Jersey Beat
“The first two cuts, “Lucy” and “Unseen” are both hooky and raw while “Helpless” is even more hooky…like some long lost late 70s power pop tune by a band no one has heard of but should have heard of.” – DaggerZine
“Unseen” is Meanwhile in Another Part of Town’smost riveting moment, with the remaining tunes paling not much further behind. Dare I say aficionados of Cheap Trick, The Well Wishers and Splitsville will be delighted with this?” – Willfully Obscure
Lenny Zenith’s “Tenterhooks’ sound is a garagey mix of blistering pop, glam and punk reminiscent of an overdriven Blown Speakers-era New Pornographers.” – Transguys (dotcom)
Riffing with “I’m Moving Out”-level bounce & swagger on “I Didn’t Lie,” while “Unseen” is blended pop recalling XTC’s “Then She Appeared – @IndieMusicRevs (via Twitter)
EVEN OLDER PRESS
Offbeat – Soundcheck: Lenny Zenith Takes 5
WTUL – Vox 50th Anniversary edition interview
Jenifer Convertible – Press
Singer Becky Kury To Join Revived RZA – Bunny Matthews / Times-Picayune
Zenith, at the nadir, gives it another try – Jeff Hannusch / Times-Picayune
Lenny Zenith and James Booker – Richard Braverman / Los Angeles Weekly
Notes on New Orleans Music Interview – Rock Adam / Gambit
Lenny Zenith and Pop Combo – Rick Olivier / Wavelength
The Lenny Zenith Interview – Bunny Matthews, Jon Newlin / Figaro