Lizz Wright – Shadow
Though Lizz straddles the expansive spirit of easy listening & world music with her dark alto vocal she’ll remind dedicated fans of Joan Armatrading of her equally persuasive early music. But Ms. Wright is exceptional. Her voice is primarily a tool of emotion, ambiance & sensitivity before it approaches any showboating possibility (which isn’t even necessary or evident in her style).
The opener “Sparrow” features Angelique Kidjo & the two ladies together decorate this song with flair, warmth & presence. There is little out there in the pop world that approaches this musical narrative with such breezy expertise.
The Georgia native Lizz Wright has been an articulate singer for many years & encapsulates the ability to be a diversified artist who can sing with the jazzy-folk intensity of Nina Simone (but not as raw) & take deep dives into the blues. She projects with the precision of the creative contralto rock chanteuse Joan Armatrading (“Willow,” “Heaven” & “Persona Gratis”) who is often emotionally naked in her material.
“Root of Mercy,” is atmospheric, dark & intense without compromising its melodic beauty. Lizz is also as attractive vocally as an obscure singer-songwriter Heather Mullen (“Night by Night” 1991). There are 11 Lizz Wright musical images produced by Chris Bruce on Shadow (Dropped April 12/Blues & Greens Records/50:00) & each has a unique vitality of its own.
Taking a page from The Fairfield Four (“Po’Lazarus”) with consideration of New Zealand country artist Donna Dean (“Rain Fall On Me”), Ms. Wright’s thumping percussive “Sweet Feeling” (first single) follows in those reliable dramatic footsteps with her energetic & driving performance.
With the slowed-down balladry of “This Way,” Lizz uses feeling & emotion as an instrument through reflective words. Quite beautiful. Proficient, evocative & penetrating. This is how a slow song does what louder music can’t. Louder music is an expressway to the feet & ears. Whereas this seeps into the ears but travels directly toward the heart. But for it to succeed it must touch & rub against the soul. This is where the words resonate deeply with a listener. Terrific work. The musicians complement her every inch of the way.
Liz already has a respectable track record & continues with a strikingly versatile voice that’s woodsy, sweet & dry like an aged red wine. “Lost In the Valley,” has flavor as the violins whine with distinction. (Play on words not intended).
Undiminished quality throughout this album = One of the year’s best.
Highlights – “Sparrow,” “Your Love,” featuring Meshell Ndegeocello, “Root of Mercy,” “Sweet Feeling,” “This Way,” “Lost In the Valley” & “I Made A Lover’s Prayer.”
Musicians on some tracks: Adam Levy, Chris Bruce, Kenny Banks, Sr., Greg Artry & Micah Collier.
Color image courtesy of Lizz’s website. CD @ Amazon & https://www.lizzwright.net/
