Q&A: Lisa Hannigan on ‘Passenger’

I absolutely loved Lisa Hannigan‘s newest, Passenger, which is out today in the UK (check out our review here). She was kind enough to answer a few questions for us on the album process. Make sure to catch Lisa on tour!

Is there a song on ‘Passenger’ that you’re especially proud of?
I think it would be ‘Little Bird’. Initially it was the most difficult to sing in front of people but I took that as perhaps being a good thing.

Lisa Hannigan – Little Bird

What was the most difficult part of recording this album for you?
It wasn’t a very difficult process to be honest! I suppose the most difficult part was the occasional crisis of confidence if I hadn’t written anything I liked in a while but the only thing to do in that case is to keep going until something shiny turns up.

If you could describe ‘Passenger’ in five words, what would they be?
Um.. Rectangular package of recorded music?

How do you feel ‘Passenger’ differs from ‘Sea Sew’?
I feel like it’s a more confident and cohesive record. It was written and recorded in a shorter space of time which helped in that regard.

How did you come to work with Ray LaMontagne on this album?
I wanted a proper duet on the record and always wanted to sing with Ray so I sent him ‘O Sleep’ as soon as I had it demoed. Luckily, he said yes.

Are there any tracks that you’re particularly looking forward to playing on tour?
All of them! Really, there’s not a one that I don’t enjoy playing live.

What have you been listening to lately?
Today I’ll be mostly listening to Bert Jansch

What is next for you musically?
Hopefully I’ll be on the road playing shows for the foreseeable future.