During 2021 and 2022, Australian singer-songwriter Liz Stringer commanded the stage to crowds that truly appreciated her artistry—thousands of passionate fans echoing every word in packed arenas. Yet despite this undeniable appeal, Stringer’s journey has often seen her cast as a musician’s musician. Once employed as a backing vocalist for Midnight Oil during the twilight of their storied career, she has since carved out a cult following on community radio and among dedicated music aficionados, while remaining largely overlooked by mainstream channels.
An Uncompromising Voice
Approaching the third decade of her career, Stringer’s seventh album, The Second High, continues in the vein of introspection and raw authenticity. Recorded in the UK with award-winning producer Beni Giles, the album blends polished, densely melodic arrangements with Stringer’s commanding vocals that range from rich low registers to ethereal high harmonies. In tracks like “Coming Home” and “On the Level,” she unveils her journey of self-discovery and independence, offering a powerful declaration of embracing single life and dismissing the pretensions of fleeting fame.
READ MORE: Dua Lipa Goes Low-Key at Iconic Sydney Beach Amid Tour Buzz and Engagement Rumours
Crafting a Sound for the Patient Listener
The Second High is not crafted for fleeting radio moments. At a generous five minutes, the lead single “Coming Home” demands a patient audience willing to savor its sweeping piano lines and rhythmic shuffle. Stringer’s willingness to let her songs breathe is a testament to her artistic vision: she refuses to compromise depth for brevity. This is further evidenced in “On the Level,” a track that features a languid, jazzy coda, inviting listeners into a reflective space reminiscent of early ‘80s pop sophistication. It’s an album designed for those who appreciate nuance—music that rewards close attention and repeated listening.
A Testament to Artistic Integrity
While the mainstream music industry often prioritises chart-topping hits and commercial viability, Stringer seems content to remain true to herself. Unconcerned by the lack of widespread radio play, she champions an approach that values creative expression over mass appeal. Her reluctance to chase trends or alter her sound for the sake of popularity highlights a broader commentary on the music industry’s myopia, ageism, and sexism—a narrative that has both constrained and defined her career.
Standout Moments and Themes
One of the album’s most compelling aspects is its narrative of self-empowerment. The track “I’ll Never Abandon Myself Again” bursts forth as an anthem of resilience, with Stringer embracing her individuality and defying the conventional pressures of the industry. Meanwhile, songs like “Criminal” strike a balance between personal introspection and social commentary, offering a layered critique of inequality. These moments, rich with emotional and musical depth, underscore the album’s insistence on authenticity in a world that often values superficial gloss over genuine artistry.
Reception and Industry Reflections
Despite the critical acclaim from niche audiences and independent media, Stringer’s work remains underrepresented on major platforms—a situation that some critics argue is reflective of wider industry biases. However, for those attuned to her work, The Second High stands as a beacon of artistic integrity. It is an album that might not break the mainstream mold but undoubtedly deepens the respect and admiration from her cult following. As one fan put it, “Liz Stringer doesn’t just sing; she speaks to your soul.”
Looking Forward
As she continues to redefine what it means to be a singer-songwriter in Australia, Liz Stringer is unburdened by the need for mass market validation. The Second High invites listeners to slow down, engage deeply, and appreciate the subtleties of a well-crafted musical journey. In an era dominated by instant hits and viral moments, her work is a refreshing reminder that true art often lies in the details—complex, unhurried, and unapologetically authentic.
Conclusion
For those willing to invest in a listening experience that values substance over spectacle, The Second High offers both comfort and challenge—a sonic landscape that is as intellectually engaging as it is emotionally stirring. Liz Stringer remains a singular voice in a crowded industry, one whose unwavering commitment to authenticity and depth ensures that, even if she stays out of the mainstream spotlight, her music continues to resonate powerfully with those who truly listen.
