Biography:

Formed by singer-songwriter, Ells, in late 2013 as part of a recording project with Cheltenham based producer Dave Saunders, Ells and the Southern Wild are a three piece band blending melodious acoustic and rock sensibilities. Defined by Ells’ strong song-writing style and vocal presence, they seamlessly blend elements of folk, pop and rock.

As a solo artist, Ells has been described as “a dark horse with the voice of an angel” (Tanya Kelly, Priory Inn), her songs are accessible yet moving, tinged with emotion, and ranging in style from dark-edged piano pop to acoustic guitar based melodies with elements of folk-punk. With the addition of Daryl Ball on bass and mandolin, and Tom Long on drums and percussion, the band has brought a harder edge to Ells’ already accomplished portfolio. Their live performances are honest, heart-felt and direct.

Ells’ debut album, Freedom and Flight was released in July 2013. Live, she has supported artists such as Dave McPherson (InMe) as a solo artist, and has appeared at numerous festivals including Treefest at the beautiful National Arboretum at Westonbirt.

She has made several live appearances on BBC Gloucester, BBC Wiltshire, Stroud FM and on Swindon 105.5fm, as well as gaining radio play with her single ‘His Words Lie Heavy’ (released June 2014), and ‘Tangled Waltz’; both featured on her debut album. ‘Beasts of Their Own’, recorded with the band line-up, was released as a free download on ellsmusic.bandcamp.com in January 2014.