A call for unity and compassion in a divided America.
SEATTLE (November 15, 2024) – Leanne Wilkins & the Weathered unveil their compelling new single, “Alt-Reality,” a raw, reflective anthem born from America’s growing ideological divide as the 2024 election looms.
Inspired by experiences of strained relationships amid intense polarization, lead singer Leanne Wilkins wrote “Alt-Reality” as a meditation on compassion, empathy, and the power of choosing unity over division.
Anchored by Leanne’s rich vocals and introspective lyrics, “Alt-Reality” calls on the golden era of 1970s rock, layering soulful Wurlitzer keys and synth arrangements for an upbeat groove.
In an emotive outro, Leanne repeats the mantra – “All we have is love” – echoed in lush three-part harmonies, supported by guest musician Charlie Smith’s dynamic synth lines. The effect is both haunting and hopeful, invoking classic rock’s ability to channel larger societal issues while remaining intensely personal.
I hope this song will serve as a reminder through the upcoming election and going forward that ‘all we have is love.’ We all have the opportunity to choose love over fear.”
- Leanne Wilkins
Album Art by Kate Birch
“Alt-Reality” challenges listeners to recognize their shared humanity amid differences, and to strive for understanding over division. Drawing inspiration from her personal journey as a mother, and the nation’s shared struggles, Leanne and The Weathered look to encourage listeners to foster empathy and bridge divides in their own communities.
The band is excited to share “Alt-Reality” with audiences throughout Seattle and beyond, hoping it serves as a soundtrack to conversations on unity during one of the most polarized periods in recent history. The fourth single from the band’s upcoming album, it follows the summer releases of, “Light in the Darkness,” “Another Life,” and “Free Spirit.”
Produced in Seattle at the legendary Avast and Nels Motel studios, “Alt-Reality” was recorded and mixed by Robb Davidson and mastered by Rachel Field at Resonant Mastering. The song is the latest single from Leanne Wilkins & the Weathered’s upcoming 2025 album, The Art of Letting Go, which reflects Leanne’s journey through grief, motherhood, and personal rebirth.
About Leanne Wilkins & the Weathered:
Since 1998, Leanne Wilkins has captivated audiences with her haunting melodies and lyrical depth. The Seattle-based artist’s latest project, Leanne Wilkins & the Weathered, blends roots rock with blues and soul influences, channeling a style that’s deeply personal and universally resonant. Her lyrics explore relationships, personal growth, and the search for truth, bringing warmth and authenticity to a sound that defies easy classification.
The Weathered recently completed their full-length album, The Art of Letting Go, a collection of songs exploring themes of death and rebirth, pain and redemption, shadow and light. Written during the pandemic, The Art of Letting Go took Leanne on a journey back to her roots, reconnecting with her love of piano and reflecting on the complexities of becoming a mother amid a time of widespread division.
Through The Art of Letting Go, Leanne channels her grief over her family of origin, including the death of her younger sister, and the questions she faced as a mother in an uncertain world. This album builds on The Weathered’s previous EP, Ordinary Grey, while delving into more experimental territory, with keys taking center stage alongside contributions from talented local musicians, including Derek Pulvino (guitar), Clint Hoyler (bass), and Ben Loshin (drums/co-producer). The record also features some incredible guest musicians: Tim Kennedy (Hammond B3), Josh Tvrdy (guitar), Charlie Smith (keys), and Abby Gundersen (strings).
With The Art of Letting Go, Leanne and her band explore the many faces of love and self-acceptance, blending classic rock influences with modern soul for a listening experience that is as emotionally complex as it is musically rich. The album, set for release in 2025, brings a message of healing and hope to the world after a particularly dark time in recent human history, promising to deepen the band’s connection with audiences in Seattle and beyond.