Highly acclaimed underground soul/blues duo Dwight & Nicole (Dwight Ritcher and Nicole Nelson) has been charming music fans and critics for years with their profound blend of American music. Equal parts 60’s soul, 40’s jazz, and Delta blues, the duo is at the vanguard of New York City’s latest emergence of cool.Performing usually as a duo, Dwight & Nicole have the ability to bring a very big presence to any stage. Ritcher, a multi-instrumentalist, tastefully plays a Gibson Flying V guitar at most shows, running bass lines and finger-picking. When the mood strikes he takes crushing solos, reminiscent of Albert King in their grit and strength. Often, as the music calls for it, he sits at a piano or even behind a drum kit, adding to the texture of their set. Occasionally, Nelson, who builds rhythm by stomping, clapping and playing tambourine, will strap on the guitar, or sit at a piano; further revealing their versatility.In their folk-pop leanings, they are often compared to Tom Waits & Rickie Lee Jones. Critics have also called them the “rocked out reincarnation of Ella Fitzgerald and Jimmy Rushing†in their jazzier turns.Together, Dwight & Nicole generate an extraordinary depth of emotion. During the quiet, intimate parts of the show, the crowd is pin-drop silent; feeling the weight of every word. Dwight’s deep and soulful voice moves with Nicole’s expressive alto, producing lush harmonies that build and erupt, at points, to beautiful peaks; punctuating their set with memorable highlights that remain long after the curtains close.The two have had the pleasure of sharing stages with some of their favorite artists, which is a list of performers as eclectic as they are, including such luminaries as Buddy Guy, Dr John, Maya Angelou, Chuck Berry, Mavis Staples and Carly Simon.“Magnificent!†Exclaimed Ms. Angelou, who attended an opening performance at Boston’s Symphony Hall, and asked for an autographed CD following the show.
One online critic states simply, “Add Dwight & Nicole to your list of must-see acts: if you like real, passionate, old-fashioned soul music that works on your mind as much as your heart, you owe it to yourself to discover them.â€
