Class Actress have their new EP coming out this week which we’re very excited about here at Masses//Masses. We caught up with Elizabeth Harper, the leading lady from Class Actress to talk a little bit about her and the new EP.
M//M: So, as far as I understand this group initially began with you Elizabeth. How did it happen that you decided to join forces with Mark & Scott to create electronic music?
I’d know them both a long while, Scott produced my first record, then one day Mark did a remix of one my songs and I loved it so much I asked him to come produce some of my songs, and viola, Class Actress was born.
M//M: Did you ever attempt to or aspire to being an actress?
I love acting, directing, etc. I majored in dramatic art then was invited to NY by the director Josh Fox to act, but found music more my style.
M//M: How long have you been writing/performing for?
A while…but time goes by fast because once I started my head went into a blender and everything made so much sense its all I could stand to do.
M//M: Tell us your earliest memories of music in your life. When did you discover your passion?
There’s a photo where I am maybe 3, holding a little guitar, and under it my mom wrote “Lizzie calls Dad’s guitar a singboard”. Growing up I was obsessed with music and bands but I never sung or played anything, just listened. Then in college I started singing and then after school taught myself to play guitar, keys etc..
M//M: Your new EP “Journal Of Ardency” is due out within the next few days with some great reviews already. What can we expect to hear on this release?
Some sexy jams, and some romantic aspirations.
M//M: What were some of your inspirations for the EP?
Unrequited love. Borderline madness. Wishful introspection.
M//M: You seem like no stranger to the love song Elizabeth. What’s your favourite love song of all time?
Hmmm… of all time? Not sure of all time but I love “Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time)” by the Delfonics. More of a revenge song in a way, but love brings out out all kinds of emotions so…
M//M: I’ve heard the Chris from Grizzly Bear is putting out the album on his label Terrible Records. How did he first hear about you guys?
I guess someone told him, he liked it, and then he decided he should put it out. He gave me a great haircut after the Grammies so I obviously trust him.
M//M: How long till we will be hearing your debut LP?
It will come out some time in late 2010. But we play some of it live already.
M//M: Who are some of your favourite artists at the moment?
Al Green, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Chairlift, Mgmt, XX, Au Revoir Simone, Yeasayer, mid 80s Depeche Mode, Beyonce, James Brown, Luther Vandross.
M//M: So what’s on the card for Class Actress after the EP release? Will we be seeing you downunder in 2010?
That would be amazing! Hopefully sooner than later, I have a friend there I lost touch with I need to find.
“Journal Of Ardency” is out this week on Terrible Records. The EP will be available digitally and you can order the 10″ record via the Terrible Records website here.
