Elizabeth

& The Catapult

Photos by Darren Kim

Lizpults!

Before their first full-length album was in the works, they had already charmed the local New York scene with their home-recorded EP, DIY attitude, and vivacious live shows bubbling with surprises and energy. It was apparent that it would only be a matter of time before the band was snatched up by a major record label. Mike Mogis, who worked with the likes of Bright Eyes and Rilo Kiley, was brought in to produce and struck a skillful balance between elaborateness and simplicity.

It's no secret that one's childhood has an influence on their future creative endeavors. In Elizabeth Ziman's case, she spent idolizing polar opposites: classical music legends and pioneers of the folk movement. When the band was formed in 2004, the addition of two bandmates - Danny Molad and Pete Lalish - completed the trio, both adding additional influences. The result is a complex sound that pairs child-like whimsy with adult sophistication, lavish string arrangements with picking acoustic guitar, jazzy riffs with pop hooks, and more, making for a breezy listen capable of brightening any day.

Continuously escalating to new heights, it will be shocking if Elizabeth & The Catapult don't sky-rocket to mass popularity soon.

~Liz Caruso (liz@rockscope.com)
Elizabeth and The Catapult - Troubadour - Los Angeles, CA - August 8, 2009