The Beths’ lead singer and songwriter, Liz Stokes, is celebrated for her ability to blend deeply personal and anxiety-driven lyrics with energetic indie rock melodies. This unique combination has not only captured the attention of audiences worldwide but also notable figures like former US President Barack Obama. Stokes’ journey from NPR’s Tiny Desk to the expansive stages of Coachella is a testament to her talent and appeal.
The band, headlined by Stokes and her partner of a decade, Jonathan Pearce, alongside musicians Tristan Deck and Benjamin Sinclair, gained significant recognition for their 2022 album, Expert in a Dying Field. However, crafting a follow-up album proved challenging. In 2023, Stokes, now 34, was diagnosed with Graves’ disease, a condition leading to excess hormone production, which significantly impacted her mental health. “My mental health really started to spiral,” Stokes shared candidly.
The Creative Process Behind “Straight Line Was a Lie”
Despite these challenges, Stokes found inspiration in unexpected places. Her latest album, Straight Line Was a Lie, emerged from a period of personal transformation. Stokes began taking antidepressants, which initially offered her a sense of clarity. “It was really helpful experiencing a brain that was not in full spiraling mode all the time,” she told ABC Entertainment. However, this newfound clarity was temporary, leading to the creation of the album’s title track.
Stokes drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including Australian pop duo The Veronicas. Their song Untouched influenced the feel of her new work. “It’s a great song. I was sad it didn’t win the Hottest 100,” she remarked. The track Take on the new album captures the early 2000s vibe with its fast beat and intimate vocals.
Exploring Personal and Cultural Themes
Stokes’ songwriting process was deeply affected by her use of antidepressants. “I was in a kind of dark place,” she explained. While SSRIs helped her establish new routines, they also left her feeling emotionally numb. “I wasn’t sad, but I wasn’t happy either,” she admitted. This emotional state influenced songs like No Joy and Ark of the Covenant, which explore themes of anhedonia and confronting personal fears.
Religious themes also permeate the album. Growing up Catholic, Stokes reflects on her spiritual journey and its impact on her identity. Songs like Mother, Pray for Me delve into her relationship with her mother and the role of faith in their family dynamics. “It’s something that is very important to her and ties her to her past,” Stokes noted, highlighting the tension and grief that accompany these familial bonds.
Personal Reflections and Cultural Identity
Born in Jakarta but raised primarily in New Zealand, Stokes acknowledges the complexities of her cultural identity. “I don’t speak the language very well,” she confessed, though she has made efforts to connect with her Indonesian heritage. Despite feeling somewhat disconnected, Stokes is committed to exploring this aspect of her identity.
Reflecting on her teenage years, Stokes recalls her early forays into music. Her first song, written during high school, was inspired by the Harry Potter series. “Embarrassingly, it was a wizard rock song,” she admitted with a laugh. This early passion for music has evolved, leading The Beths to international acclaim.
Recognition and Future Prospects
The Beths’ music has resonated with audiences across the globe, earning them a spot on Barack Obama’s playlist. “We were playing some kind of board game at a pub in the UK,” Stokes recounted, describing the moment they discovered the former president was a fan. This unexpected recognition has only fueled their drive to create impactful music.
Looking ahead, Stokes and The Beths remain committed to their craft. Their latest album, Straight Line Was a Lie, released on August 29, continues to explore personal and cultural themes with honesty and depth. As Stokes navigates her personal journey, her music serves as a testament to resilience and creativity.
