the conversation ft. liska
The Sounds She Collected is a newsletter about mixtapes and mixed emotions. Thanks for being part of this hive mind for empathetic, hopeful people.
Typically, the first thing asked at a party is, “What do you do?” However, what we do isn’t the essence of who we are.
In a traditional interview, we’re introduced to the human being first through their latest accomplishments, their art, or something they are doing. The Conversation spotlights creative, multifaceted humans and aims to become the alternative to the traditional interview format, making it into more than a limited exchange, but a lasting connection.
Where a bio often comes first in an interview, here, you get to know a human being via their answers—they share who they are before you learn what they do. I pose different questions to each interviewee, with the aim of going beyond the surface each time. Maybe you’ll see yourself in the answers of another or learn something completely new.
Introducing the second Conversation, with Liska.
What has gotten you through the past year?
Obviously making music, but mostly cooking and eating chocolate. I find cooking to be very meditative and I developed a noodle obsession during quarantine, so knowing I can eat Pad Kee Mao at the end of a long day at work is quite literally what got me through.
What does it mean to care for the self?
I like to care for myself by prioritizing various routines I acquired during quarantine. Every morning I like to journal for 15-20 minutes, stretch, and eat breakfast before I even think about looking at my phone. I think these routines help me to better understand my brain.
I definitely used to think self-care had mostly to do with taking care of your physical body and “treating yourself” to physical or material rewards, but I now realize I feel much, much better when I make it a point each day to admit my feelings to myself. I’ve also become much more cognizant of how deeply I breathe, and that’s taught me how to be more in tune with any stress and anxiety I’m feeling in my body.
How do you foster community through your daily life?
I work in retail at a locally owned boutique, so I’ve gotten pretty used to just talking to strangers all the time. I like to bring that with me wherever I go, like if I go to a coffee shop, I try to start a small conversation beyond, “How are you?” “I’m good, and you?” It feels really good to share short but genuine interactions with people you don’t necessarily know, especially in the digital age we live in where online interaction with others seems pretty empty.
What do you think this world needs more of?
I think this world could use a bit more courage. More belief in the self, but not in an individualistic way. In a way where we all realize we’re capable of conquering our goals and encourage others to take the leap and at least try. That courage would ideally act as a safety net for any fears of failing. Like, “Hey, maybe you didn’t get what you wanted but you had the guts to try. And hopefully the courage to try again.”
Tell us about one of the most fun, magical, life-inducing moments you’ve experienced.
One time I got the chance to swim in a bay at night with bioluminescent plankton. I straight up looked like Danny Phantom when I’d move my arms around the water. I was 10 when I did that and I think about it regularly to this day.
What mantra do you repeat to yourself in difficult moments?
“I surrender.” To the universe. To God. To my lack of control over a situation.
When did you know your art needed to be made?
I’ve always made music, literally from when I could talk I was singing and then eventually started writing my own songs when I was 11. So I always knew I needed to make art, but it wasn’t until high school when I decided I wanted to pursue it as a career.
What pop-culture phenomenon are you obsessed with right now and why?
The Gen Z vs. millennial dichotomy. I think technically I’m considered a millennial, but I definitely feel like I land more in the middle. 1995? Idk, but I’m also obsessed with the word “cheugy” now because of it. I feel old and young at the same time. It’s just very entertaining.
What does your aura look like?
Hopefully a very deep shade of indigo.
What’s something you love about yourself?
My resilience.
About Liska:
Liska is an experimental pop singer from Chicago with deep roots in the music industry. Her music thrives on intricate production, dreamy vibes, and influences including everything from pop to disco to house. Her EP Jupiter (ILYSM) is a prayer, a surrender to the music gods, and an invitation to jump on the next cosmic train. This Jupiterian ode invites new influences, experiences, and emotions into Liska’s musical universe. Taking direct inspiration from artists such as Björk, Gwen Stefani, and Mars Argo, Liska finds a new voice and sound that, like mighty Jupiter, is strong and ever-expansive.
Where to find Liska:
Instagram
Twitter
SoundCloud
Bandcamp