Born Marisa dos Reis Nunes in Mozambique and raised in Lisbon, the contemporary fado trendsetter known as Mariza is Portugal's obvious heir to the legendary Amália Rodrigues. She boasts an impeccable vocal range in the grand lineage of traditional fadistas—richly declarative alto phrasing and a peerless ability to communicate drama. But if her vocals pay tribute to the past, her music unhesitatingly strides forward, tying in gospel, jazz and flamenco. It all meshes perfectly with the hushed strings and intricate acoustic guitar work that forms the backbone of her huge repertoire.