Australian comedian Lizzy Hoo discussed her life experiences and musical influences on the Take 5 podcast.
Her adventurous nature is a trait she attributes to her mother.
Music has played a significant role in Hoo's life since childhood. Her early exposure involved mastering the electronic organ, which introduced her to 1980s classics and jingles written by her teacher, Mr. Ken.
Adventures and Anthems
Hoo's musical tastes evolved with her travels. Specific songs became associated with unique escapades, such as Arctic Monkeys with a road trip from Canada to Mexico, Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" with karaoke in Japan, and Camille with jogging in Nice.
A Year in Mongolia: From Accounting to Adventure
A notable experience included her move to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, where she worked as a journalist trainer through the Australian Volunteers for International Development program. This decision was prompted by a desire to leave an unfulfilling accounting job. Despite initial unfamiliarity with Mongolia and challenges like inconsistent hot water, she characterized the year as highly positive, filled with adventures. These included horse riding in the vast, cold landscape, which reached temperatures of minus 40 degrees Celsius in winter.
Mongolia's Unique Soundscape
Hoo observed Mongolia's unique music scene, noting its 1990s grunge influence, a robust rap culture, and traditional throat singing. During the Playtime music festival, she chose to see the local indie rock band The Lemons over headliner Peter Hook. She selected The Lemons' song "Monad" for the podcast, citing its spacious sound as evocative of Mongolia's expansive steppes.
Lizzy Hoo's show, "Says Hoo?", is currently touring.