The Obelisk Questionnaire is a series of open questions intended to give the answerer an opportunity to explore these ideas and stories from their life as deeply as they choose. Answers can be short or long, and that reveals something in itself, but the most important factor is honesty.

Based on the Proust Questionnaire, the goal over time is to show a diverse range of perspectives as those who take part bring their own points of view to answering the same questions. To see all The Obelisk Questionnaire posts, click here.

Thank you for reading and thanks to all who participate.

The Obelisk Questionnaire: Katy Elwell of Lizzard

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How do you define what you do and how did you come to do it?

I would call myself an animal drummer. For me, drumming is a martial art. A primal, tribal form of expression. Becoming a drummer came to me as a revelation. One day I just knew. So I started drumming…

Describe your first musical memory.

My Dad’s Michael Jackson BAD vinyl… I was probably about four years old. My Dad was a hifi fanatic and had (and still has) an awesome collection of music. I used to dance and jump all over the place when he put music on!

Describe your best musical memory to date.

Tool, Ænima. Hearing just the first notes of that album changed my perspective on life immediately! No other music has had that kind of impact on me since. I was transported.

When was a time when a firmly held belief was tested?

When I heard Connor McGregor, the MMA fighter and a great inspiration of mine, say: “speed over strength, precision over power.” That shook my belief that I could just play drums with reckless abandon, and I realized that I could only let go and lose control if I actually had control in the first place…

Where do you feel artistic progression leads?

Spiritual development and self knowledge. Better communication with others. Better understanding of the world and its complex nature.

How do you define success?

Definitely by being happy and fulfilled in what you do. Living life to the full and giving the best of yourself.

What is something you have seen that you wish you hadn’t?

The dark side of human beings, myself included. Fear, anger and our totally destructive nature.

Describe something you haven’t created yet that you’d like to create.

A unique piece of drumming that will truly inspire my bandmates!

What do you believe is the most essential function of art?

Uplifting and awakening people and conveying a message, preferably one of hope and positive energy!

Something non-musical that you’re looking forward to?

Getting back to practicing Qi gong, the fundamental martial art.

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Lizzard, Eroded (2021)