Биография

“Water Words” is the debut album from Bay Area based non-binary artist Asha Wells. Musically inclined since childhood, Wells’ journey started with classical vocal performance and musical theater before moving on to riot grrrl punk and jazzy folk. Born in the San Francisco Bay Area, Wells relocated to Salt Lake City with their family, finding a home in the city’s all ages underground music scene. Arriving back in San Francisco, their sound took a genre-expanding turn that reflects their colorful music history. Inspired by the likes of Kate Bush, Joni Mitchell, and Jeff Buckley, Wells found themselves experimenting with open guitar tunings and atmospheric textures paired with thought provoking imagery. Working with co-producer Jason Kick at his Tunnel Vision studio in Oakland, the pair recorded 1-2 songs a week at the height of the pandemic. Kick brought his knack for arrangement, synthesis, and drum programming, helping to create a supportive environment for Wells’ atmospheric guitars and haunting melodies. The resulting album pairs textured sounds with tender harmonies, calling to mind the work of contemporary art forward singer-songwriters like Aldous Harding, Hand Habits, and Cate Le Bon as much as torchbearers like Patti Smith, Cat Power, and Fiona Apple.