Lizz Wright: Salt : Music Reviews : Rolling Stone

Album Reviews

The twenty-something Lizz Wright isn't a jazz purist: She freely spices her songs with elements of gospel, blues and pop. And though her vocals call to mind Paula Cole and Des'ree, Wright is an original. Salt is a satisfying blend of originals and covers like "Soon As I Get Home" from the musical The Wiz, Mongo Santamaria and Oscar Brown Jr's "Afro Blue," and Chick Corea and Neville Potter's "Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly." The fine backing band features Brian Blade on drums, while other notable performers include Chris Potter, whose soprano sax defines the sultry mood of "Goodbye," and Danilo Perez, who lights up "Afro Blue" with an impressive piano solo. But it's Wright's powerful, intelligent and emotion-laden voice that sweetens Salt.

CHRIS RUBIN
(May 13, 2003)