Lisa Caruso Shake Baby Shake Interview

Shake Baby Shake

Forced breaks from relapse in sickness, prolific writing, and to London and back again, Lisa Caruso has been relentless in her work toward the completion of a new set of songs that reflect the pause in time since her last releases took off.

Now with brooding guitars, a tight and sometimes rip-roaring rhythm section reminiscent of a 90's childhood, and an utterly unique vocal that swims between an honest cry and a chilled shaken falsetto. This singer/songwriter is an accomplished Artist ready for the taking.

After dropping the acoustic for an electric and working with guitarist Benjamin Fletcher (Sarah Blasko, Marina and the Diamonds) on production in both the UK and in OZ, Lisa's new songs are a cathartic release of unflinching truths. She shares stories of prickly relations, arduous times, and finds strength in motion, with instrumentation giving the tunes a strong punch to boot.

Unafraid to explore the nonchalant brute in all of us, this intrepid born Sydney sider still remains the honest and boundless romantic who's passion and delivery never leaves a set unhinged. Lisa Caruso drives a tight indie force with fury and affection, promising to only produce wholehearted, kick-ass music.

'Shake Baby Shake' Sydney Launch Party
Saturday 8th December 2018 - Petersham Bowling Club

… other December shows …
Sunday 2nd December - The Golden Barley Hotel, Enmore
Thursday 13th December - Franks Wild Years, Thirroul

https://www.facebook.com/lisacarusomusic

Interview with Lisa Caruso

Question: How does it feel to return to music?

Lisa Caruso: It feels really great to be releasing music again. I'm looking forward to having new ears listen, and am excited to hear what people think of the new songs.

Question: How would you describe Shake Baby Shake?

Lisa Caruso: 'Shake Baby Shake' is centred around having an invisible illness. It acknowledges the tribulations, but also celebrates finding a strength and resilience throughout it. Brooding and brash guitars set the mood with a 90s drum machine vibe, and a later rip-roaring kit.


Question: Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

Lisa Caruso: I have a song called 'Dream Lover'. It's a newer one of mine that has a fast tempo and a speaking sort of vibe to the melody. Its super fun to sing, and has a relentless rolling vibe. Doesn't give up till the very end.


Question: What should we expect from the upcoming tour?

Lisa Caruso: New band and a fresh new set. There's a lot more edge in these songs which I am excited to perform live. It's got a lot more edge and is much more 'electric' than anyone would have remembered (in a live setting).


Question: If you could have anyone in the world attend a show, who would it be?

Lisa Caruso: Hmm… this is not going to sound very Rock'n'Roll, but my late Nonna (grandma) Giovanna. I had a pretty special relationship with her, as did all her grandkids. The warmest most kindest person I've ever known. She just had so much love. I'd love to see that smile of hers again!


Question: Do you prefer performing live or recording?
Lisa Caruso: Difficult question. I love the thrill of going into a recording session and not stopping till it's done. Watching the songs come alive. But there is also no greater feeling than performing live with good sound and an attentive audience. I'd probably say performing live because you don't have time to be as critical. Play it and it's a memory!


Question: What motivates you most when writing music?

Lisa Caruso: I think I just enjoy the process. Writing is probably the most relaxed and forgiving part of the journey. No-one needs to be around, or is waiting on you. It's when you get to be you're most creative, I think.


Question: Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

Lisa Caruso: Anything 90s grunge as well as Beach House, Jonathan Wilson, Marlon Williams, Aldous Harding, PJ Harvey. Always PJ.


Question: What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Lisa Caruso: Martha Wainwrights self-titled record blew me away. Something about that album made me want to record my own. There's so much beauty in the arrangements. Very real and raw, but also extremely thought through.


Question: If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

Lisa Caruso: Probably Cat Power. Her early albums in particular are so amazing to me. And I have a fascination in how she manages to perfect any song that she covers. The feeling in her delivery is always so spot on. She's very special.

Question: What's a typical day like for you?

Lisa Caruso: Ah, if I'm working, which I have been doing a lot of lately, I will usually go to yoga afterwards, come home, cook a nice meal, have a sing, and chill out for the rest of the evening.


Question: What is next for you?

Lisa Caruso: I'll be finishing off the album and releasing a couple more singles. More shows, more writing, just more of the same. A team would be nice. I'd like a team.


Interview by Brooke Hunter