An Interview with Singer/Songwriter Liz Clark

Music, in and of itself, can be thought of as a form of therapy. Melodies, lyrics, and rhythms can all affect us mentally, whether we're in times troubled or joyous. If you've listened to her music, indie singer/songwriter Liz Clark just might work out as your melodic therapist.

Raised in the Rocky Mountains, she grew up with a love of the '60s folk-rock that her parents instilled in her. Most of her broader musical following, however, has arisen from her performances in New York City, and through her Myspace page and other websites.

My first experience hearing Ms. Clark was at The Red Lion, on Bleecker St. in NYC; I was enchanted with her lovely singing voice, beautiful guitar playing, and sense of humor. This conversation took place online, through Google Talk.

"I just recorded a new CD," she tells me. "It's called Pursuit and it's being pressed up at the manufacturer's little elves right now, as we type! I'm expecting them to get to me on Thursday. It's my best CD yet, I'm really happy with it."

Clark enlightens me about Pursuit. "It is [different] in a lot of ways. My last CD we recorded in a tiny home studio, calling favors from friends around the country. This one was recorded in one, giant 3,000 square foot room. All live. The music is more honest, I think. It's a bit more on the softer side because I fell in love and started to see life so differently. But there are definitely some rock songs on there, too. It's hard to talk about because it's so new! Hard to see it objectively. But maybe [my previous album] Hand On the Stove is a bit more poppy. This one has a bit of alt-country flair."

She informs me that she'll send a copy, but that the CD's official release date isn't until October. Tentatively, I ask about her significant other.

"My significant other is the lovely Tessa Perry, a musician from Ireland. She's all over the record, singing back-up vocals on every song. She's very talented and inspiring...we got married last September."

Clark says that in addition to the U.S., she has done some touring in Europe. "I've toured in England and Ireland a few times. It's hard to say if they're more receptive. It really depends on the venue. There are some amazing places in the U.S. that are just really receptive to songwriters and they set up the venue so it works with that. I will say though, I enjoy England a lot. People there of all ages seem to be ready to listen to all kinds of music."

Clark has also toured in the U.S. extensively. "I just got off of a Midwest tour and I made so many friends and reconnected with some old friends I've made out there from before. But the first venue that pops into my mind that I love is The Paradigm in Sheboygan, WI. Love them."

"It's run by an amazing, young entrepreneur named Kate who is just really tapped in to [sic] art of all kinds. Especially the mid-level artist who is making a living, but not quite big time yet. They have a great recording set up and an apartment to stay in upstairs when you're not touring through. They also make awesome coffee :)."

At some of her earlier shows in New York, Clark played with fellow indie singers Jill Stevenson and Marissa Levy, both of whom are still involved with the scene. While their styles are each very different, the three share some folk sensibility, and a penchant for honest, forthright songwriting. "I see Marissa all the time. She's a great friend. Jill and I have been a little less in touch lately, but I'm sure we'll cross paths soon. Both great musicians."

Though currently in a long-term relationship with Perry, Clark says that she has written songs about relationships with both men and women. "In Hand On the Stove, I sang about a man (for instance, "Be a Man"). In my new album, I sing about a woman. But I think in some cases it's good to be ambiguous, since love is so universal."

Like many young indie artists, Clark publishes her music through her own label, called Pommier Music. "I'm on an independent label I started with some friends of my parents who invested in it. I'm not opposed to record labels, I just know what works for me right now. I'm opposed to the wrong record company that doesn't take my artistic integrity into mind. But there are lots of great record labels out there that I may find a home with in the future."

Clark mentions that she has many friends who are amazing musicians as well. "I'm really excited about Steve Waitt (I sing on his album), Willie Breeding, Tessa Perry (of course)."

The only official music video Clark has publicly released is "Who's Your Angel?" This piece, directed by Michelle Bonfils, is available on YouTube, at YouTube: Liz Clark - Who's Your Angel? The video, beautifully shot, begins with a redheaded Clark lying in bed in a white room, wearing a tank top. Throughout the video, she travels to various locales, including a bar (or possibly restaurant), singing the confessional lyrics.

Online, besides this video, "I have silly little 'vignettes,' you might call them. Check them out under my journal page on my website. Or if you're a Tumblr member, I'm http://www.tumblr.lizclark.com.

Clark's Myspace page features sample tracks from Pursuit, including "Feet Are On the Ground," "Metal Train," and "Sweet Lover." The tracks feature multiple layers of instrumentation, including tightly rhythmic percussion, both acoustic and electric guitars, and of course Clark's beautiful voice.

If her music manages to capture your heart, you just may want to pre-order Pursuit now. It can be purchased (as a signed copy) for a minimum of $25, or up to a $2000 donation (if you're able to afford it), in which case Ms. Clark will send 4 autographed copies of her album; include your name in the liner notes, thanking you; write you a personalized song, which just might appear on a future album; and "organize a private concert for you and your friends in a house or venue of your choice!" While not everyone may be able to afford the $2000 purchase, any donation is appreciated.

Liz Clark is a talented musician pouring out her lyrical blood for all to see and hear. Come witness her play, and be the first to catch it.