Lennon Stella's 6-Year Hiatus: A New Folk Masterpiece

Lennon Stella has unveiled "Sleeping Lion," her new album released on October 23rd, marking her first musical offering in six years. Stella, 27, described her hiatus as a much-needed period to relax and intentionally regroup after a career starting in childhood. The 12-track "autumnal folk" collection was produced by Andy Shauf, who Stella described as a magical and perfect timing collaborator.

Stella aimed to "honor the songs" and capture their raw essence, prioritizing honesty over external opinions. She revealed that an original production of the album with a band was scrapped because it didn't feel entirely correct. "Comedy Show," a delicate album opener, was written serendipitously after a guitar swap. Another highlight, "Smartest Person in the Room," is an upbeat track co-written with Ethan Gruska and Simon Wilcox, tackling the subject of mansplaining.

Further personal touches on "Sleeping Lion" include the album cover, shot in Stella's bathroom under a flea market lamp for an intimate feel. Stella, who began her career with her sister as Lennon & Stella, also reflected on her early YouTube success, noting she never revisits viral videos like their "Call Your Girlfriend" cover. She finds grounding in overlooked folk artists like Nick Drake and Connie Converse, whose purity reminds her of making music purely for love.