By Rob Clark
Quick, October 31, 2005
From her stunning debut album Exile in Guyville to her pop-flavored 2003 self-titled disc, Liz Phair travels her own trail – whether critics like it or not.
The slick sound on that ’03 disc earned Phair her first slew of brutal reviews. But she’s back with Somebody’s Miracle, a mellow, introspective new record.
Here’s more from Phair, who plays here tonight.
Q: Why do you think some fans and critics have a hard time watching an artist evolve, no matter what the direction is?
A: Do they? Maybe they just want what they first experienced. As an artist, it is very hard to not grow in some direction. You hope everyone will come along for the ride, but also understand that you may grab some new listeners, while losing some older ones.
Q: What would you say to the person wanting Exile in Guyville Part II?
A: Do they also want The Sistine Chapel Part II, or Mona Lisa Part II? And who is to say that my other recordings like Whip-Smart and Liz Phair aren’t somebody’s Exile?
Q: Tell us about the Songs in the Key of Life connection you felt with this record. How did that Stevie Wonder influence emerge?
A: Stevie Wonder has inspired me for years and years. I finally got to a place in my life where I could reflect on some of his work, and try to emulate it as best I could. This record in particular builds in a certain pattern, and that was my inspiration.
Q: What are you listening to these days?
A: When I am on tour, there is a lot of music on the bus. We listen to Bloc Party, the Stylistics and Gorillaz.
Q: You’re performing in Dallas on Halloween. What’s your favorite scary movie?
A: The Ring. Just watch it and you will know.
