Ellis is a modern-day folk troubadour. Her sixth release, Break the Spell, on her own label, Rubberneck Records, is a mindful collection of intimate and thoughtful songs with subtle, introspective lyrics that expand in meaning with repeated listening. In “Before You Leave,” a testament to grief and loss, she sings, “Every star at night is a beating heart/That someday will fall/Young and old they are bright/and make a grand exit.”
Ellis paints lyrical imagery that is simple yet poetic. She described her process in a phone interview: “When I was writing the songs on Break the Spell, I felt a sense of clarity and openness with every moment being intentional, culminating in a cohesive journey.”
Handsome and angular with a fringe of brown hair that almost disguises her piercing blue eyes, Ellis walks on stage, flashes a bashful grin and does what she does best: singing her heart out every single time. She has a lovely voice, guitar chops and a graceful songwriting style; however, there is something about her live performance that is transformational. The sum is greater than the parts, and she is amazing.
When asked about live performing, she said, “I try to get out of my own way, to be totally present in the moment and experience.” According to Ellis, this has everything to do with her Buddhist practice. With eight years on the road and a grueling touring schedule of 150 gigs annually, she is remarkably centered, approachable and real.
Portland musician Julie Cantonwine, owner of Healthy Pets Northwest, agrees. She became Ellis’ road manager in April.
“Ellis pulls everything out at every show; she is genuine and entirely present for the audience,” Cantonwine said. “Ellis is ordinary in a magnificent way, totally authentic and without pretense.”
Recorded in New York with money borrowed from fans, Break the Spell was produced by Ben Wisch, whose production credits include releases by Marc Cohn and Patty Larkin. To quote Ellis’ song “How Would It Be”: “What if loving what you have is everything?” To Ellis, it is everything. She loves what she does.
—Dale Schiff
Timing Is Everything: Ellis lives in the moment (2008)
