After establishing herself with a wealth of warm and vivid efforts these last few years, fast-rising British artist Nicki Wells has now returned to deliver her immersive new album 'Ellipsis'.
Featuring the previously shared gems 'The Night', 'Holy Smoke' and 'I Have Longed To Be Here', this new twelve-track collection makes for a beautifully rich and endearing listen. Jam-packed with sweet and tender textures, a sweeping atmosphere, and her own emotive vocals at the helm, she is continuing her ascent as one of the more mesmerising names doing the rounds right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her background and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The Piano. I distinctly remember the moment I thought the piano had such an amazing, resonant sound.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I actually loved songwriters or musicians who knew how to tell a story well. I remember growing up with Joni Mitchell, Kate Bush, Leonard Cohen, Nick Drake and Jeff Buckley.
What was the first album you remember owning?
My brother gave me my first cassette which was Oasis’s Morning Glory. But the first song I remember singing along to was The Beatles, I wanna Hold Your Hand, when I was 6 years old.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Tracy Chapman’s Fast Car
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not really, just trying to hold on to the feeling before it dissipates and the moment fades.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I really enjoy the music of Belgian artist Tamino who has Egyptian roots, he melds East and West very well. I also discovered Gabriels, who are amazing.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Joni Mitchell. Hero.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Making music is a privilege. It gives joy and meaning to so many. In a way, it’s being a sonic healer to those who resonate with your message and that is so rewarding.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The technological world we live in now which is all about metrics and numbers, it’s a distraction from the art - how it is valued.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
If you are genuine, you work hard, you write good songs and just be yourself, eventually your work will float to the surface and be a lifeboat for others.
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Nicki Wells' new album 'Ellipsis' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.