Pair of ballads “a departure” for indie-rocker; proceeds to benefit transgender homeless in New Orleans
Singer, composer Lenny Zenith announces the release of his Quarantine single, two songs recorded remotely with musicians in New Orleans, New York, and New Jersey.
“Always Near Me” (Side A) is a jazzy ballad featuring Lenny’s longtime friends, drummer Carlo Nuccio (Continental Drifters, Pat McLaughlin), and Paul Clement (Twangorama, Woodenhead), both veterans of past Zenith bands. Featured performers include New Orleans pianist Brian Coogan, (Johnny Vidacovich, Alex McMurray), and trumpeter Scott Frock (Sturgill Simpson, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, The O’Jays, The Temptations, and Gladys Knight), as well as another longtime friend, Alison Young (Songdogs), who contributes intimate vocal harmonies.
“Always Near Me” (Side A) is a jazzy ballad featuring Lenny’s longtime friends, drummer Carlo Nuccio (Continental Drifters, Pat McLaughlin), and Paul Clement (Twangorama, Woodenhead), both veterans of past Zenith bands. Featured performers include New Orleans pianist Brian Coogan, (Johnny Vidacovich, Alex McMurray), and trumpeter Scott Frock (Sturgill Simpson, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, The O’Jays, The Temptations, and Gladys Knight), as well as another longtime friend, Alison Young (Songdogs), who contributes intimate vocal harmonies.
“How We Got Here” (Side B) is an orchestral ballad about acceptance and grace, composed and arranged by Zenith with Joe McGinty (Losers Lounge, Psychedelic Furs, Baby Steps) on piano, Claudia Chopek (Echo of the Ghost, New Retro Strings) on violin and viola, and Eleanor Norton (Adele, Natalie Merchant, Jay -Z, etc.) on cello.
The single marks a departure for the frenetic performer and former ‘punk rock’ singer, known for his work with Pop Combo, Jenifer Convertible, and Tenterhooks.
“I wrote these songs around the beginning of the pandemic,” said Zenith. “Reflecting on the substantial changes to my day-to-day life, I considered the many, often unexpected paths life leads us down — past loves, dreams lost then found, and the fragility of life. I felt an intense longing for connections of the heart.
“I was also exploring new paths away from pain and loss and was a bit surprised these songs came out of me in this style,” he added. “I felt extraordinarily fortunate to connect with musicians I had worked with on and off with for many years (and a couple of new ones as well).”
“Always Near Me” was produced by Tom Stern of Blue Velvet Studios NOLA and drummer Carlo Nuccio.
“How We Got Here” was produced by Tom Stern (Blue Velvet Studio) and Ray Ketchem (Magic Door, NJ)
Artwork and photography for Quarantine is by well-known New Orleans musician, photographer and artist Skip Bolen.
Some nice words about “Always Near Me”
“This is a beautiful song, love the vibe of this one. The vocal delivery is wonderful, I really loved the acoustic around too, this is smooth and airy. The atmosphere is pleasant, love the mixing.” – Sinusoudil Music
“Really powerful song!!! I think this song is quite powerful, you have a really interesting musical style. Your track is quite melodic , the singer has a distinctive and attractive vocal tone and it is mixed really good the rhythm. The melody is original and instrumentally the song has a rich full accompaniment. Overall, a great song with strong comercial potential! Thanks for letting me review your song! I hope to listen more songs from you very soon!” – Tucan Hits.
“Thanks for sending me this song! I love the mood of this song, Your style is super nice! Good job! Even if it’s not online with my instagram profile, I’ll share your song in one of my Spotify playlists! I wish you the best for your musical and artistic journey! Thanks again for letting me discover your musical project!” – Mateo S
“”Always Near Me” is a beautiful song, performed with an emotional and expressive voice. Anyway, it’s an excellent job and we wish you every success with your release. Greetings, Sofia.” – Caoba Records
“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.” – OUT.com
- Proceeds from the single support House of Tulip (NOLA) for transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming people experiencing housing insecurity. houseoftulip.org