By Aparmita Das
SHILLONG:
With waist-length hair, intense yet soft eyes, and an electric guitar slung over her back – that’s Liza’s unmistakable style. Her journey from a young music enthusiast in the dormitories of KJP Girls Hostel in Shillong to becoming a skilled and innovative guitarist in the bustling heart of Bengaluru is nothing short of a musical odyssey. Liza’s story showcases the power of passion, the pursuit of diverse influences, and the unwavering commitment to crafting her unique musical identity. Delving into her journey, from the early sparks of fascination to the creation of her eagerly awaited EP “Magical Elixir,” uncovers the transformative force that music has been in her life.
Liza’s journey began in the dormitories of the KJP Girls Hostel in Shillong, where the resonance of her teacher’s piano during church sessions left an indelible mark. It was this early exposure that prompted her to pick up the guitar, leading her down a path that she would come to adore. She reminisced, “I fell in love with it and gradually lost interest in studies. I pestered my mom to let me pursue music, and she agreed.” Thus, her journey as a musician took root at the Shillong School of Music, Jingkieng, Nongthymmai, when she was just 9 years old. After completing her 12th standard, her unwavering passion for music brought her to the bustling streets of Bengaluru.
Liza’s experience in Bengaluru changed how she did music. She went to John’s School of Music and learned a lot about modern music styles, getting ready for her future. But it was at The Bangalore School of Music where she really found her style. She spent 8 years there, focusing on Western classical guitar and jazz guitar. With help from mentors like Kenneth Isaac and Jagadeesh MR, founder/Composer of World Fusion Jazz Band – MoonArr, Liza explored new things in music, mixing her different influences with technical skills.
Her upcoming EP, fittingly titled “Magical Elixir,” stands as a culmination of these diverse musical influences. Comprising four tracks, the EP provides a snapshot into Liza’s world. She shared, “I started writing songs when I was in school, and these are collections of that time. I mainly write based on my personal life experience.” This collection of songs shows how powerful music can be, according to Liza. She thinks it’s like a healing potion for the soul.
Liza’s prowess as a classically trained and jazz-influenced guitarist shines through in her songwriting and playing techniques. The discipline instilled by her training allowed her to tackle intricate guitar techniques with ease, while her distinct influences lent her compositions a unique edge. Balancing teaching music and live performances, Liza discovered the growth that emerges from stepping out of her comfort zone. “Whether playing with live bands or with kindergarten kids, I always learned something new,” she said.
The transition from her rural roots of Mawkyrwat to the urban buzz of Bengaluru inevitably left its mark on Liza’s music. “Moving was tough,” she admitted, but it was this journey that shaped her musical identity. Her compositions evoke unity amid diversity, drawing strength from her roots while embracing the vibrancy of the city.
Two standout pre-released tracks from her upcoming EP, “COLD” and “Magical Elixir,” (title same as her upcoming EP) encapsulate Liza’s versatility. “COLD” is about her own experiences and has clear and strong words. The music mixes old-style heavy metal with prog-rock feelings. “Magical Elixir,” according to Liza, is a song about how music is like a magical thing that can heal and help people’s spirits. It’s about overcoming problems through music. This song is connected to her past relationships and shows how music can help you feel better.
With the spotlight on “COLD” and “Magical Elixir,” Liza holds high hopes for the reception of her complete EP. Each song presents a unique facet of her artistry, inviting listeners into her world of musical diversity. Liza’s message is clear: “Freely express yourself without harming others, and let your heart out.”
Liza’s musical exploration knows no boundaries. She’s not afraid to use different ways to make her guitar sound unique. She plays around with pedals and digital tools to add special sounds to her music. “I experimented with them a lot when creating this EP. And, also these days I’m quite obsessed with plugins from Neural DSP,” she said.
From her initial fascination with the piano’s resonance to becoming a skilled guitarist and composer, Liza’s journey has been an inspiring one. Her narrative echoes the transformational power of dedication and passion, and her upcoming EP “Magical Elixir” invites us all to experience the enchantment of music’s universal language.