Lenny Zenith’s latest album, He/Hymn, is a vibrant tapestry of sound that defies easy classification. Far from being a disjointed collection, it is a cohesive masterpiece bound together by Zenith’s exceptional ability to meld rock, pop, and country into a rich, flavorful gumbo. This eclecticism reflects both his New Orleans roots and the dynamic energy of his current home, New York City, resulting in a truly exhilarating listening experience.
He/Hymn is not just an album but a sonic exploration of the redemptive power of music. It delves deeply into the emotional complexities of relationships, capturing raw feelings of heartbreak, longing, and the quest for healing. Each of its nine tracks stands as a miniature masterpiece, contributing uniquely to the album’s overall narrative. From the powerful rock anthem “One Of Us Should Go” to the nostalgic country of “Beards of Grey,” and the tender ballads “Partly Cloudy Dog” and “Mask,” Zenith’s versatility as a songwriter and performer shines through. His lyrics, vibrant and often poetic, navigate universal themes of love, loss, and the human condition, while his musical prowess creates lush, cinematic soundscapes.
Zenith’s background is integral to the energy fueling this album. His life, straddling the cultural richness of New Orleans and the frenetic pace of New York City, has profoundly shaped his artistry. A pioneering transgender artist, Zenith has captivated global audiences with his fearless exploration of music and unwavering authenticity. His journey of self-discovery began in New Orleans, where he found refuge and inspiration at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA). The support of compassionate doctors Kathleen Rieves and Lillian Robinson at Tulane Medical Center was pivotal, helping him navigate the challenges of being a transgender adolescent and emerge as a confident artist.
As his musical identity evolved, Zenith fronted acclaimed bands such as Jenifer Convertible, Tenterhooks, Minor Planets, and Pop Combo, even adopting the moniker “RZA” before it became synonymous with Wu-Tang Clan. His collaborations with renowned producers James Murphy (pre-LCD Soundsystem) and Wharton Tiers (Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr.) and performances with legendary acts like U2, Iggy Pop, The Replacements, and X underscore his influential presence in the music world.
In 2022, Zenith released the poignant trans-anthem “Where Is Safe,” highlighting the struggles of growing up transgender in an era of increasing legislative encroachment on transgender rights. He has donated 100% of the proceeds from this release and the majority of all streams/downloads to organizations fighting for trans causes since 2022 and this release will be no different.
Atwood Magazine praised his infectious indie pop, noting its classic alternative influences, while OUT.com lauded Zenith’s quiet but legendary rock legacy, recognizing him as one of the genre’s first true transgender rock stars.
With He/Hymn, Lenny Zenith’s artistic vision reaches new heights, showcasing both his growth as an artist and the assured power of his voice. It is a remarkable testament to his journey and his extraordinary talent.
