bryanjazz

It's simply amazing. Not just her deliciously sultry voice, which covers your eardrums like a silk blanket, but the fact that she makes it appear so effortless. The power, depth and intensity with which she delivers her artistry reveals a wisdom one might not readily anticipate from a 25 year old. I believe we are definitely talking about an old soul here.

I had the good fortune of seeing Lizz Wright live in New York City last week, the day after the release of her second album, Dreaming Wide Awake, which beautifully fulfills all the dreams and promise of her debut (full review forthcoming). The concert was wonderful. Supported by a tight band of excellent musicians, Lizz passionately delivered most of the songs from the new album, and a couple from her first, Salt, which I'm sure was appreciated by her longtime fans. I was especially pleased to hear her sing "Blue Rose", one of my favorites from Salt, and one that she wrote (with Kenneth Banks).

Another treasured surprise of the evening was a guest appearance by Toshi Reagon. Toshi (who has writing and performing credits on the new album) added a nice element to the set as she joined Lizz on stage for a couple of songs, including what is becoming one of my favorites on Dreaming..., Neil Young's "Old Man". On this song particularly, in addition to her own beautiful voice, Toshi added a hand clap that fit in nicely with the song's down home, country feel. Lizz actually joked with Toshi about it onstage. I know I will never hear the song again without hearing those claps. Ah...the beauty of live performance!