A reader asked that I re-up the Robert Sean Leonard version of Softly and Tenderly (Jesus is calling). The track comes from the Chelsea Walls soundtrack, scored by Wilco's Jeff Tweedy.

It started out a play and was later adapted for the screen by Nicole Burdette. As the title may suggest, the film surrounds around new York's famed Chelsea Hotel. Directed by Ethan Hawke and starring among others Uma Thurman, Kris Kristofferson, as well as the afore-mentiond RSL, his old chum going back to those "Oh Captain, My Captain" days.

Leonard, currently available on primetime every week playing foil to Hugh Laurie on tv's House, contributes two tracks to the soundtrack. Softly and Tenderly and a cover of Wilco's The Lonely 1 (from Being There).

I'm going to include both here today. There are some cool touches on The Lonely 1, which otherwise is a pretty non-descript and faithful, if not stripped down, cover. Note the fat water drops in the background as if played under the cover of a leaky roof and . Softly and Tenderly is a beautiful take on a spiritual standard. Rather stunning actually.

Robert Sean Leonard - Softly and Tenderly (Jesus Is Calling) mp3 (sendspace link)
Robert Sean Leonard - The Lonely 1 mp3 (sendspace link)