5 Reasons You Should Listen to ‘Awakening’ by Lizzie Thomas

With Awakening, New York City-based jazz vocalist and songwriter Lizzie Thomas unveils her most personal and genre-defying work to date. Seamlessly weaving neo-soul, jazz, and vocal pop, this nine-song collection marks a bold leap forward from her acclaimed interpretations of the Great American Songbook into a deeply original soundscape. Recorded at the legendary Powerstation and featuring the Grammy-winning Harlem String Quartet, Awakening blends emotional depth, rich musicality, and a fearless embrace of self-discovery. Here’s why it deserves a spot at the top of your playlist.

It’s Lizzie Thomas like you’ve never heard her before

Known for her sophisticated takes on jazz standards, Thomas steps into full creative authorship here—writing, composing, and producing with clarity and vision. This is her voice, her message, and her world.

A fusion of genres that feels seamless

From the soulful groove of This Love to the orchestral elegance of Awakening, Lizzie blends jazz, neo-soul, and vocal pop into a sound that’s fresh yet timeless. It’s an album that refuses to be boxed in.

Songs born from dreams and intuition

As a self-described clairaudient, Thomas receives melodies and lyrics in dreams and meditative states. This gives tracks like Home and Magnificent an almost otherworldly intimacy, pulling you into their emotional core.

Collaborations that elevate every note

With the Grammy-winning Harlem String Quartet and top-tier NYC musicians in the mix, the arrangements shimmer with richness and depth—whether it’s a lush string section or the warmth of the B3 Hammond organ.

A message of liberation and self-love

From the mantra “Harmony restores abundance” to the call for unity in This Fire, Awakening is as much about emotional healing as it is about musical beauty. It’s a reminder to step into your truth and live it fully.