Jeanne O’Connor to Premier New Album, “The Sweetest Sounds” at Caffe Lena 

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Local Saratoga Springs artist, Jeanne O’Connor, is set to premiere her new jazz album “The Sweetest Sounds” at Caffe Lena on Friday, July 3. During the sneak peek, CDs will be available ahead of an early 2027 release on streaming services. 

Joining O’Connor on stage is guitarist Dave Stryker, drummer Bob Halek, bassist Todd Coolman, pianist John Di Martino and vocalist Amy London.

O’Connor started conceptualizing this album during her second fight with cancer in 2023. After enduring her battle, she was able to get into the studio in May of 2025 to start recording. 

“Medianoche (for Don)” the second song off her sophomore album is a tribute to her late husband, Don Grolnick. Grolnick is a legend of the jazz world, who recorded with greats like James Taylor and Linda Rondstadt. 

This album represents O’Connor’s continuing search for new sounds that bring old works into a new life. “I’m looking back, but I’m also looking forward to what’s still waiting to be discovered. To find something new in the harmony, the lyric, or the rhythm of these wonderful songs,” says O’Connor.

Audience members will be able to hear songs from the ’40s, like “My Ship” and “Baltimore Oriole,” alongside ’60s hits like Laura Nyro’s “Save the Country” and Jimmy Webb’s “Wichita Lineman” in a new style presented by O’Connor. 

In anticipation of her performance at Caffe Lena, O’Connor remarks, “It is one of the jewels of Saratoga. A place where they really appreciate musicians and artists; a place where people listen.” For tickets and more information, visit: caffelena.org/event/jeanne-oconnor-the-sweetest-sounds-exclusive-pre-release-concert/.