★★★★☆
Sometimes you can’t help asking yourself why Lizz Wright doesn’t have as big a following as Gregory Porter. Her voice, a husky contralto, is every bit as soulful as his, and her choice of material can often be rather more interesting. Elements of jazz, gospel, blues and AOR pop are kneaded together in a blend reminiscent of a more demure version of Nina Simone.
Perhaps it comes down to personality. Porter radiates warmth and positivity, albeit of a slightly syrupy variety. The Georgia-born Wright is much more of an introvert. “Don’t take me to a party,” she joked at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in southeast London as she apologised for her halting conversation between numbers. When she is singing she feels at ease; talking