Russ Lorenson, acclaimed as “San Francisco’s Favorite Crooner,” demonstrates his resilience with the release of the live jazz-cabaret album, “Standard Time: Live In New York.”
Published under the independent label LML Music, Lorenson celebrated the album’s debut at The Triad Theater in New York on December 4th, featuring a stellar lineup of singers like Billy Stritch, Mary Foster Conklin, Lennie Watts, Jennifer Roberts, and #1 Billboard Artist Spencer Day. The event’s proceeds went to support the American Songbook Association.
A dedicated advocate of The Great American Songbook, Lorenson, with his rich tenor and warm charisma, has captivated audiences across the United States and Europe. Despite facing a life-altering diagnosis of HPV-positive tonsil cancer in 2021, early detection led to his successful remission. Though cancer temporarily silenced his singing, it couldn’t stifle his voice. With renewed purpose, Lorenson is channeling his creativity into various projects, including reintroducing his back catalog, a children’s book inspired by his holiday track “Jingles, The Christmas Cat,” and his first album in eight years, “Standard Time: Live in New York.”
Recorded in 2008 at the iconic Metropolitan Room, the album offers a captivating snapshot of Lorenson’s live performances, showcasing his vision that The Great American Songbook continues to evolve. The “modern classics” program features renditions from a haunting Lionel Richie’s “Hello” to heartfelt originals like “How I Will Say I Love You” and “Diamond In The Sky.” The dynamic and energetic “Raise the Roof,” composed by Andrew Lippa, stands out with its infectious enthusiasm.
“Standard Time: Live in New York” serves as a bridge between past classics and potential future standards, influenced by contemporary greats like Michael Feinstein, Harry Connick Jr., Tony DeSare, and John Pizzarelli.
Lorenson reflects on the album, emphasizing its role in challenging the notion that The Great American Songbook is becoming extinct. His show in 2008, “Standard Time,” showcased “new standards,” shedding light on the continued crafting of songs with soul and depth.
Beyond the album, Lorenson has exciting plans, including a series of children’s books starting with a Christmas book in 2024. These endeavors underscore his commitment to leaving a positive legacy. “Standard Time: Live in New York” reminds listeners of the timeless appeal of classic songwriting, inviting them on a soulful musical journey through The Great American Songbook’s perennial charm while embracing tunes that resonate with today’s audiences.
Lorenson’s belief that these songs, initially recorded for a 2009 release, have evolved into the new generation’s standards is validated by the album’s rediscovery 15 years later.
Standard Time: Live In New York was co-produced by René Wieland, Dutch music producer, engineer and radio host of The Great American Songbook Radio Station.
Listen to “Standard Time: Live in New York” on Spotify.
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As Lorenson looks ahead, his music and career continue to be fueled by a desire to leave a lasting, positive impact, ensuring that his artistry remains timeless for generations to come.