Cape Verde, off the west coast of Africa, has until now been known for its one international star, Cesaria Evora, with her sad-edged "morna" ballads and their stories of parting and emigration. Now comes a new more upbeat view of this chain of islands, from Evora's one-time dancer and former backing singer.

Lura is a delightful, witty enthusiast for all things Cape Verdean, though she was born and lives in Lisbon, where the country's exiles have proudly retained their culture, language and music. The result is an intriguing clash of styles. Her Portuguese upbringing, and the international experience gained from working with Evora and others, have given Lura an easy-going sophistication and language skills that are a crucial part of her stage appeal. Her English may not be perfect, but it's enough to show her wicked sense of humour. She could sing anything from jazz to pop, but instead she has chosen to highlight the variety in Cape Verdean music, while adding a demonstration of her raunchy dancing.

Lura's London debut included a dash of morna, which has strong links to Portuguese fado, matched by more upbeat styles like funana and batuku, originally brought to the islands by African slaves. Backed by a classy five-piece band, she switched between cool thoughtful ballads, stirring songs like Na Ri Na, and demonstrations of the traditional Txabeta percussion, once played by women banging on bales of cloth, and now performed on what looked like a gold-covered cushion. Lura's Lisbon neighbour, the fado star Mariza, played in this same small hall just three years ago, before becoming a celebrity. I predict that Lura will follow.

· At Guildhall, Gloucester, tonight. Box office: 01452 503050. Then touring.