Nicki Wells immediately captivated me with her unique storytelling, complemented by a voice that resonates and a talent for crafting mini-epics. Her life has unfolded like a captivating literary series, each chapter brimming with emotion and profound depth.
Born to an English troubadour and a Swiss-French connoisseur of intricate compositions, Wells embarked on her artistic journey at the tender age of six. Her childhood resembled a vibrant picture book, adorned with diverse hues. From the lively streets of South East London to the tranquil landscapes of rural Italy and the serene Himalayan foothills, her family’s early travels intricately set the stage for her artistic vision. The eclectic tastes and backgrounds of her parents exposed her to a diverse musical palette, laying the foundation for a boundary-defying exploration of sound.
In her teenage years, Wells took a bold leap across the globe to attend the prestigious McDonald College in Sydney, immersing herself in a world-renowned hub for creative and performing arts programs. These experiences interwove seamlessly into the fabric of her musical foundation, creating a montage that embraces the global spectrum of sound.
A turning point in Wells‘s odyssey unfolded with her discovery of Nitin Sawhney‘s work—an artist celebrated for seamlessly blending Eastern and Western musical elements. This pivotal moment not only marked a musical awakening but also initiated a decade-long collaboration and mentorship that profoundly shaped her artistic vision. Under the moniker TURYA, Wells released “Ocean,” her debut album—a project crystallizing her unique musical identity through the fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds.
Amidst the challenges of a global pandemic, Wells sought solace in the pastoral surroundings of her mother’s countryside home. This period birthed her latest musical endeavour, the first under her real name, “Ellipsis.” Taking charge of every aspect of production, Wells crafted an uncluttered sound, allowing melodies to breathe freely.
Her vocals, delicate and evocative, weave a spell on the listener, drawing them into a realm of unabashed vulnerability. Like a masterful writer, Wells unfolds her compositions with precision—each note a meticulously crafted penstroke in the pages of her sonic diary. Echoes of early Bon Iver‘s haunting melodies, Phoebe Bridgers‘ intimate storytelling, and, at times, Radiohead‘s luscious orchestration resonate through her work. However, Wells doesn’t emerge as an imitator but as a unique voice—a storyteller with a distinctive capacity for expression.
In the mesmerizing prologue of “Never Will,” the album’s opening track, muffled notes and ethereal vocals set the stage, akin to the opening scene of a poignant classic. As the narrative unfolds, “The Night” becomes an enchanting chapter, with acoustic guitars and ghostly harmonies creating an intimate atmosphere. “I Have Longed to Be Here” emerges as a pivotal moment, with orchestral flourishes and Hindustani-influenced vocals breaking through barriers in the unfolding odyssey. Positioned as the emotional peak, “Warrior” charges into the storyline—a powerful arc within the album’s script.
These tracks, among others, contribute to the novel-like structure of “Ellipsis,” where each song is a carefully crafted episode, seamlessly woven into the broader odyssey. The album’s sonic landscape unfolds like the turning pages of an engrossing opus, revealing layers of emotion, introspection, and artistic exploration.
Nicki Wells underscores her mastery as a storyteller and fantastic songwriter, with each track representing a captivating segment in the ever-evolving tale of her musical journey. We can’t wait to hear what she imagines next.
The deluxe version of “Ellipsis” is out now!
TRACKS:
