Surprise Cast #73 Liz Hanks

Welcome to this enchanting episode of Surprise Cast, where I delve into a profound conversation with the distinguished cellist and composer, Liz Hanks. Liz, who thrives in the vibrant cultural scene of Sheffield, England, shares her incredible journey through music, marked by a deep engagement with an eclectic mix of traditions, including folk and Indian classical music.

Liz's collaborations with renowned artists such as Martin Simpson, James, Richard Hawley, and the organization South Asian Arts UK, reflect her commitment to exploring diverse musical heritages. These rich experiences have culminated in her debut solo album, supported by Help Musicians UK. The album is a beautiful reflection of her core musical inspirations: minimalism, folk, Indian classical music, and improvisation, showcasing her versatility and ability to interweave different sonic textures.

In this episode, Liz shares personal anecdotes from her musical journey beginning in a little village of Northamptonshire ("I had a very happy childhood"), including her serendipitous discovery of the cello ( ("would anyone like to play an instrument?"), her formative years, and the pivotal role of mentors and collaborators who have supported her vision. 

Liz also opens up about the creative process behind her album "Land," which evokes the natural world ("field recording used...I wanted to keep the album simple") and the historical essence of her local area in Sheffield ("Very hilly...with amazing bird life"). Listeners will be treated to an immersive experience with two tracks from her album, "Brook" and "Hide," each accompanied by Liz's insightful backstory. The episode also explores her thoughts on the physicality of playing the cello, the importance of maintaining a positive disposition, and how she navigates through creative droughts.

Additionally, Liz discusses her experiences collaborating with other artists, including Richard Hawley ("I've known Richard for a long time...so he just sat there, played guitar to me and sang...") Liam Gallagher, and various folk and Indian classical musicians, providing a glimpse into the collaborative magic that fuels her creativity.

The episode concludes with a lightning round of questions, revealing Liz's personal preferences and inspirations, followed by a sneak peek into her upcoming projects for 2024 and beyond. We wrap up the conversation with a reflective passage from Rick Rubin's book, "The Creative Act: A Way of Being," underscoring the interconnectedness of the creator and the creation.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the harmonious blend of musical traditions, the creative process, and the personal journey of a remarkable artist. Tune in and discover the magic of Liz Hanks' music and her inspiring outlook on life and creativity. It's extremely refreshing just like her personality. 

Follow Liz Hanks:
https://www.lizhankscello.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lizhankscello

https://x.com/lizhankscello

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086611054446

Follow Richard Hawley:
https://www.richardhawley.co.uk/