LIZZ WRIGHT WITH KENNY BANKS SR.

With one of the most spellbinding voices of her generation, Lizz Wright has spent more than two decades creating music that moves effortlessly through jazz, gospel, blues, R&B and the deep traditions of the Black American church.

At the heart of that journey has been pianist Kenny Banks Sr., one of Wright’s earliest mentors and most trusted collaborators. Their musical connection began more than 25 years ago in Atlanta, when Wright first heard Banks perform and knew immediately she wanted to make music with him. What followed was a remarkable creative partnership spanning Wright’s acclaimed career, from her 2003 debut Salt through The Orchard, Fellowship, Freedom & Surrender, Grace and Shadow.

Their new album, Nearness, brings that relationship into its most intimate setting yet: just Wright’s extraordinary voice and Banks on piano and organ. Together, they revisit jazz standards and spirituals including “The Nearness of You,” “All the Things You Are,” “Amazing Grace,” “Deep River” and “How I Got Over,” alongside two originals.

The result is both beautifully spare and deeply powerful: a celebration of friendship, mentorship, shared musical history and what Wright calls “a great platonic love.” After a quarter-century of making music together, Nearness captures two extraordinary artists listening, responding and trusting one another completely.

Cover: $57.60 ~ $60.00