Interview: Liz Stokes of The Beths discusses the inspiration behind the band’s latest album, “Straight Line Was a Lie”
Liz Stokes, the lead singer of The Beths, is renowned for her magnetic blend of introspective, anxiety-laden lyrics set against a backdrop of lively indie rock tunes. This unique combination has garnered her attention from notable figures such as former US president Barack Obama and secured her performances at significant events like NPR’s Tiny Desk and Coachella.
Alongside her partner in both romance and creativity, guitarist Jonathan Pearce, and fellow band members Tristan Deck and Benjamin Sinclair, Stokes achieved critical acclaim for their 2022 album, “Expert in a Dying Field.” However, crafting a follow-up to their successful record proved to be a challenging task. Stokes, aged 34 at the time, faced a diagnosis of Graves’ disease in 2023, a condition that led to hormonal imbalances and a decline in her mental well-being.
Initiating the use of antidepressants for the first time, Stokes experienced a newfound sense of equilibrium in her mind. The medication provided relief from the relentless cycles of anxiety she had previously encountered, offering her a glimpse of a calmer mental state. Nonetheless, the initial sense of ease and optimism soon dissipated, giving rise to the title track of The Beths’ newest album, “Straight Line Was A Lie.”
Confronted by a creative block amid her medication-induced numbness, Stokes drew inspiration from eclectic sources ranging from The Veronicas’ hit song “Untouched” to buried childhood memories. These unexpected influences converged to shape a deeply personal record, transcending previous boundaries in Stokes’ songwriting journey.
Reflecting on the creative process while on antidepressants, Stokes candidly describes the contradictory impact of these medications on her ability to write songs. The seemingly contradictory nature of feeling both emotionally muted yet introspective allowed her to delve into darker themes central to her lyrics.
Elements of religious symbolism and personal experiences, particularly regarding her relationship with her mother’s faith, punctuate the album’s introspective tracks. Stokes navigates the complexities of faith, heritage, and familial ties, channeling these intricate emotions into poignant lyrics that resonate with listeners.
Despite being born in Jakarta, Indonesia, Stokes admits to a disconnect from her Indonesian heritage, acknowledging her limited exposure to the culture. While her upbringing in New Zealand has shaped her musical influences, she remains committed to exploring and understanding her roots, albeit with some ongoing challenges.
Reflecting on her teenage years, Stokes fondly recalls her initial forays into songwriting, crafting her first song during high school. Fuelled by a love for music and a quirky flair for wizard-themed compositions, Stokes traces her musical evolution from busking with Harry Potter-inspired ballads to commanding the global stage with The Beths.
In essence, Stokes’ musical odyssey encapsulates a blend of personal introspection, boundless creativity, and a relentless pursuit of authentic self-expression. As she navigates the complexities of mental health, identity, and artistic evolution, Stokes continues to captivate audiences with her distinctive blend of vulnerability and resilience through the medium of music.