Here at cMusicWeb.com, we know that not all of the good music is Christian
music. And, well, not all the good music fits in the genres we usually
listen to. One of our new writers, Scott Bush, is here to introduce you to
Lizz Wright, a new artist on Verve Records. Also, check out our list of
bands that should be played on MTV and other new features on cMusicWeb.com!

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BANDS THAT SHOULD BE ON MTV
We're very happy here at cMusicWeb for Stacie Orrico, Switchfoot, MercyMe
and (despite what you may have read from me in the past) even P.O.D. for
their success in the "big leagues" of mainstream music. But it also occurs
to us that there's a lot in the CCM world that mainstream America may be
missing out on. Here are my picks for the bands that aren't in rotation on
MTV now…but should be.

Read Ben Forrest's list and why he picked these bands:
http://cMusicWeb.com/features/bandsthatshouldbeonmtv


SALT - LIZZ WRIGHT (2003)
by Scott Bush

If you're looking for something a little different to add to your musical
menu, it's time to cook up something special. Turn the lights down low. Into
the bowl throw equal parts sophistication and soul. Shake thoroughly to
ensure it's mixed well. Toss with a whole lot of talent. Serve it plenty
cool. Take a taste. If it seems like something's missing, Lizz Wright will
tell you it's the Salt. Her debut album on Verve Records, it's the perfect
spice to add to any musical taste. It might be a little misleading, though,
to insinuate that this album has only one flavor, because it's more like the
whole spice rack.

With a sound that is cooler than the other side of the pillow, this project
makes a strong case that this classically trained vocalist is
heiress-apparent to a long line of singers stretching back to the heyday of
jazz. Her voice, while perhaps not possessing the range, at least makes a
good approximation of Whitney Houston. But the delivery is more like Billie
Holliday, or even Sarah Vaughn. A little throaty, a little sultry, but what
is lacking in pure beauty is more than made up for by a control that grabs
onto the listener and holds on tight.

The mix of this CD rightly makes Wright's voice the centerpiece. As
enjoyable as that is, it's almost a shame as well. Backing her up are some
musicians who are very accomplished in their own right. Among others, Brian
Blade (critically acclaimed drummer), Denilo Perez (Grammy nominated
pianist), and Chris Potter (saxophonist extraordinaire) have influenced this
project, which was co-produced by Grammy winner Tommy LiPuma. Together, this
team overwhelms the listener with a rich, clear sound that makes every note
and nuance standout.

Though this is her debut, this twenty-something minister's daughter shows a
level of maturity beyond what is expected of one so young. Of the twelve
songs on the album, she wrote or co-wrote five. And in choosing songs to
round out the album, she chooses wisely. Her covers of songs like "Afro
Blue" and "Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly" fit perfectly with the mood and flow
of the album. Like puzzle pieces, even the songs that might not fit at first
glance slide perfectly into place. For example, the traditional-style song
"Walk With Me, Lord" is given a subtle treatment such that it makes a
seamless transition from secular to spiritual and back. Ms. Wright's
soulful, heartfelt delivery is nowhere more appreciable than on a
spectacular rendition of "Soon As I Get Home," which of course is from the
score of The Wiz.

Though this album is not intended for Christians, per se, it has no
objectionable themes. In fact, there are several songs that encourage people
to think for themselves, and not be affected by those around them. Along
with the above spiritual, there are also songs that speak of being saved by
grace, and of praying for guidance.

If you are a jazz aficionado, you probably already know about Lizz Wright.
If you don't know of her, turn in your credentials. But if you are new to
jazz, or are looking for something a little different, Salt will definitely
leave you thirsting for more.

Read more about Lizz Wright at cMusicWeb.com:
http://cMusicWeb.com/folk/lizzwright


OTHER NEW STUFF ON cMUSICWEB.COM

Review: The Weak's End - Emery
http://cMusicWeb.com/hardrock/emery/weaksend.shtml

Review: Welcome To Wonderland - Big Fat Jam
http://cMusicWeb.com/hardrock/bigfatjam/welcometowonderland.shtml

Feature: Bands That Should Be On MTV
http://cMusicWeb.com/features/bandsthatshouldbeonmtv


Thanks for reading this week's cMusicMail, and we'll be back next week with
even more great content. If you have any comments or questions, please reply
to this e-mail or send them to webmaster@.... We'd love to hear
from you!

Dan Ficker
http://cMusicWeb.com/
a different approach to music
AOL IM - dMusicWeb