Threading together songs off her new album with pieces from the classical American Songbook along with hits from Neil Diamond, Judy Collins, and Barbra Streisand, this wide range of music encompasses not only great sorrow but great love, loss, and longing. As Liza journeys through her set, we journey through her life story, gleaning a sense of who she is and where she comes from. Pulman’s unique talent of revealing herself through anecdotes that launch into songs is mastered in part thanks to strong and seamless music direction. 

A talented band fills out the stage with impressive solos from artists on guitar, saxophone, and trumpet. The concert is well lit and the rapport between band and singer is hilarious to observe. The evening’s set reveals Pulman’s impeccable phrasing and the breath support of a master. It is no surprise she was taught to sing at such a young age.

But Liza Pulman shines brightest, not in the high notes (which are hit effortlessly), but when her exuberant personality shines through: spontaneous, witty, and self-deprecating. This evening will trigger nostalgia for the great hits of yesterday and a strong reverence for the impressive album of music that Pulman has just released. There’s no better way to get acquainted with it than in the company of a true star. 

 

Liza Pulman: The Heart of It plays London’s Riverside Studios April 24-30, Wilton’s Music Hall July 4-5 2022.

Review: Matthew Pierce    Photo: Dom White