Leoni Si Nasce by Renato Zero: A Wild Ride Through Pop and Rock
Alright, let’s talk about Leoni Si Nasce, the 2019 album by Italian legend Renato Zero. It’s one of those records that feels like a journey—part pop, part rock, with some Europop vibes sprinkled in for good measure. Think big vocals, lush orchestrations, and Renato doing what he does best: telling stories that stick with you long after the music stops.
The album is packed with tracks, but I’ll zoom in on two that really stood out to me. First up, “Il Leone”. Man, this song hits hard. The brass section (shoutout to Valerio Galavotti on sax) gives it this roaring energy, like you’re stepping into a lion’s den. And Renato’s voice? Damn. He sounds like he’s lived every word he’s singing. There’s something raw and unapologetic about it, like he’s reminding us all to tap into our inner strength. Plus, the way the track builds from a quiet intro to this explosive anthem? Chef’s kiss.
Then there’s “Per Non Essere Così”, which is just… wow. This one sneaks up on you. At first, it feels like your typical ballad, but as it unfolds, it gets under your skin. The remastered version has this crystal-clear quality that makes every note feel intentional. Corrado Rustici’s guitar work is subtle yet haunting, and when Renato sings about breaking free from expectations, it’s impossible not to feel it deep in your chest. Honestly, this track stayed on repeat for me for days.
What’s cool about Leoni Si Nasce is how it blends old-school charm with modern production. You’ve got Randy Jackson laying down basslines while George Perry keeps the drums tight, but then you also have these sweeping orchestral moments thanks to Renato Serio. It’s like they took everything great about Renato Zero’s past work and gave it a fresh coat of paint.
And can we talk about the credits real quick? This thing was clearly a labor of love. From Antonio Sechi and co. adding layers of backing vocals to Roberto Marcotulli handling design, it feels like everyone brought their A-game. Even Giulia Cerrao jumping in on effects deserves a nod because, trust me, those little details matter.
So yeah, Leoni Si Nasce isn’t perfect—it’s kinda messy in parts, with so many versions of the same songs (remastered, original, etc.), but honestly? That messiness kinda works. It feels human, you know? Like Renato and his team weren’t afraid to experiment and let things breathe.
Final thought: If lions could make albums, this might be exactly what it would sound like. Roaring, proud, and full of heart. But here’s the kicker—it made me wonder, are we all born lions, or do we become them? Either way, listening to this album felt like finding my own roar. Now excuse me while I go listen to “Il Leone” again.