REVIEW | Marisha Wallace - Live in London (album review)

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Reviewed by Jorja

Marisha Wallace: Live In London captures the journey of a powerhouse performer, bringing together the iconic roles and songs that have defined her career. Step into the theatre with Wallace as she delivers a show-stopping live performance that showcases not only her unparalleled vocal ability, but also the heart and soul she pours into every performance that she does.

Recorded in front of a live audience, this album captures an electric atmosphere that studio recordings simply cannot replicate. From the very first chords to the final bow, Live In London immerses listeners in the energy of the theatre and live performance — it feels as though you’re right there in the room experiencing the magic unfold in real time.

The setlist spans some of Wallace’s most notable roles, including Becky in Waitress and Sally Bowles in Cabaret, alongside show-stopping power ballads and equally striking emotionally devastating performances. Highlights include a Whitney Houston medley, giving Wallace a chance to demonstrate her astonishing power and control, as well as a tender interlude honoring the late Gavin Creel, a moving tribute that adds a heartfelt touch to the performance. Special guests Laura Baldwin, Lucie Jones, Sharlene Hector and Nick Rashad Burroughs also contribute to the evening, adding depth, warmth and intricate harmonies to the experience.

Wallace’s performance style is a perfect blend of power, soul, theatricality and subtle vulnerability. Dialogue interludes to the audience make the recording feel intimate and personal, like she’s telling a story directly to you. Standout moments such as “A Soft Place to Land,” where her voice blends beautifully with Baldwin and Jones, deliver goosebumps-inducing harmonies that are as intricate as they are emotional.

Having followed Wallace’s career and seen her live in Cabaret, listening to Live In London is like reliving the magic all over again. Her dedication, stage presence, and sheer vocal prowess are undeniable, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who listens to her or watches her perform.

Live In London is a must-listen for musical theatre fans and lovers of live performance alike. Wallace’s voice is truly one of a kind — powerful, emotive, and unforgettable — and this album perfectly captures the essence of a performer at the peak of her powers.

★★★★★

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