L.E.O.
Albums
Facts about L.E.O.
L.E.O. is a collaborative project led by American singer-songwriter Bleu (William James McAuley III), known for his work as a solo artist and songwriter for various artists. Here are some facts about L.E.O.:
Formation and Concept: L.E.O., which stands for "The Low Earth Orbit", was formed as a collaborative project by Bleu in 2005. The concept behind L.E.O. was to pay homage to the classic pop sounds of the 1960s and 1970s, particularly the music of The Beatles and Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). The project aimed to capture the spirit and nostalgia of that era while infusing it with a modern twist.
All-Star Lineup: L.E.O. features an impressive lineup of musicians and collaborators, including members of popular bands such as Jellyfish, Hanson, and Semisonic. The core lineup of L.E.O. includes Bleu on vocals and various instruments, Roger Joseph Manning Jr. (Jellyfish) on keyboards, and Andy Sturmer (formerly of Jellyfish) on drums. Other notable contributors have included Mike Viola, Kay Hanley, and Pat Sansone, among others.
Debut Album: L.E.O. released their debut album, "Alpacas Orgling", in 2006. The album received critical acclaim for its meticulous production, catchy melodies, and clever songwriting. "Alpacas Orgling" showcased L.E.O.'s ability to recreate the lush harmonies and intricate arrangements of classic pop music while adding their own contemporary spin. The album featured standout tracks like "Goodbye Innocence" and "Ya Had Me Goin'".
Second Album: Following the success of their debut album, L.E.O. released their second album, "By the Time We Got to Rockville: A Tribute to R.E.M.", in 2018. This album paid tribute to the influential alternative rock band R.E.M. and featured covers of some of their most beloved songs, reimagined in L.E.O.'s signature pop style. The album received praise for its fresh take on classic R.E.M. tracks and its ability to honor the band's legacy while adding a new perspective.
Continued Influence: While L.E.O. has been relatively quiet in recent years, their music continues to resonate with fans of classic pop and rock music. Their albums have become cult favorites among aficionados of melodic and sophisticated pop, and their influence can be heard in the work of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from the classic sounds of the past. Despite their limited output, L.E.O. remains a cherished project for fans of timeless and meticulously crafted pop music.