"Lenny" is the sixth studio album by American rock musician Lenny Kravitz, released in October 2001 through Virgin Records. The album achieved commercial success, reaching number 12 on the Billboard 200 and number 55 on the UK Albums Chart. The lead single, "Dig In," peaked at number 31 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and played a significant role in Kravitz's continued acclaim, earning him his fourth consecutive Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance. Another notable track, "If I Could Fall in Love," featured on the Blue Crush soundtrack and garnered Kravitz a nomination in the same Grammy category in 2003.
Critics noted that Lenny followed a resurgence in Kravitz's career, which began with his previous album 5, particularly due to hits like "Fly Away" and his cover of "American Woman" from Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. The success of his Greatest Hits compilation, which included the new track "Again," set the stage for this album's release. Kravitz wrote, arranged, produced, and performed every track, showcasing his multifaceted talent through a minimalist approach with acoustic and electric guitars, live percussion, and drum programming.
The album opens with "Battlefield of Love," featuring a simple guitar riff reminiscent of Grand Funk Railroad and a wah-wah guitar solo. The first single, "Dig In," described as a gritty rocker, incorporates electric guitar and catchy pop melodies that have become Kravitz's signature style. "Yesterday Is Gone" carries a Beatles-esque vibe, while tracks like "God Save Us All" and "Stillness of Heart" reflect Kravitz's neo-hippie sentiments. The plaintive ballad "Believe in Me" showcases a stripped-down style, reminiscent of Seal's work. Another highlight, "Bank Robber Man," is inspired by a real-life incident where Kravitz was mistaken for a criminal in Miami. The song features a humorous narrative about the encounter, combining social commentary with personal experience. Overall, Lenny represents a continuation of Kravitz's signature rock sound, blending elements of pop, acoustic, and electric guitar work, all while maintaining his distinctive lyrical themes.
