Lizz Wright, Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club, Show Review
April 11, 2024, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, a typically cool and drizzly evening for the small town and yet, Lizz Wright was able to draw in a packed house of fans excited to listen to her warm up their night. On the eve of her new album release, “Shadow”, Lizz Wright delivered an intimate and soulful one and a half hour of stories and music to Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club audience. Acclaimed vocalist and songwriter, Lizz Wright, known for her sultry, smoky sounding voice, proved yet again why she remains a staple in the hearts of music lovers.
As the first notes of “Walk with me, Lord” filled theroom, the audience was visibly moved, their expressions softening as Wright’s deep, resonant voice washed over them, setting the tone for a night of introspective melody and warmth. A wonderful start to the evening as we were swept away on the musical journey that captured the essence of the night to come. “Old Man”, the second song of the evening and always a crowd pleaser for Lizz, resonates deeper each time as her performance unleashes layers of nostalgia and personal reflection that are profoundly universal. No matter who the audience is, the familiarity of the tune combined with Lizz’s soulful delivery is a song that delivers and has her audience longing for more. The strategic choice to blend classic hits with new tracks from her album, “Shadow”, offered both familiarity and fresh excitement.
Lizz is an amazing and thoughtful story telling singer who shares stories of her life’s journey with humor and gratitude. About thirty minutes into the set, the club’s audience was captivated by the drums intro for Sparrow, and built the anticipation for Lizz’s performance that brought people to their feet. An obvious appreciation for the artist and for sharing her songs and stories with all. Halfway through her set, “Dreaming Wide Awake” was the song that seemed like everyone was waiting for. The keys on this song are so melodic and emotional, the audience was on the edge of their seats, imagining what it might be like to dream while wide awake.
Lizz jumped on the keys and her band closed the set with “Salt”, “Who Knows Where the Time Goes” and “Root of Mercy”, once again bringing the audience to their feet and cheering for her nothing held back performance. As we stepped back into the cool, rainy night, it was clear that Lizz Wright didn’t just perform, she transformed Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club into a sanctuary of soul and warmth, leaving us all a little richer in spirit.
Lizz is currently touring a few dates in the United States and will leave for dates in Europe this summer. Find out more https://www.lizzwright.
Bonnie Morrissette, Author
WSCA Secretary, Board Chair
Host of Bonnie’s Mixtape
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